Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Rune Aeterna 17
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Posted by Avatar Deathscythe on 05-26-2002 09:07 PM:
Gran Adageros Chapter 17
What will happen in Gran Adageros Chapter 17?!?!?!?
....Write more to find out. ^_^
__________________
"Words are powerless to express one's feelings, and sometimes they become a silver knife."
Posted by Avatar Deathscythe on 05-26-2002 09:13 PM:
Asheri Chapter 17
Watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, car!
We're not as dumb as you think we is!
Ha! Keep up the good work guys!!! ^_^
__________________
"Words are powerless to express one's feelings, and sometimes they become a silver knife."
Posted by Avatar Worldmaker on 05-26-2002 10:25 PM:
Alexandros had made his way for several days to the north of Nyliam Proper. Caliph had stayed in Nyliam, awaiting news of Aramus' whereabouts, so that he might act in his diplomatic capacity to further the efforts of the small, but gathering resistance to the 'new' government of Balanum. The travel had been harder than it should have been for the lone Holy Knight, as his weakness was still great, and weariness pulled at his whole being daily. However, in what seemed like eternity, but in reality was but four days, he had scaled the mountain known as Mount Nyliam, and stood at the doors of the Crystalline Chapel once again.
Pressing lightly upon the doors, they opened easily on their glassy hinges and Alex once again peered upon the magnificent interior of the Creator's holiest of places. He walked slowly down the narrow aisle, gently laying his hands upon the pews as he passed them by, advancing slowly towards the altar. He knelt for a moment before he had even reached the altar, for just being inside this place was refreshing his body and soul, wiping away the pain and weariness that had consumed him the past days and weeks. raising again slowly, he stepped another few small steps and knelt again, touching his head the the scintillating altar, and he raised his voice in song. The song filled the room and echoed out of the building, seemingly amplified, it filled all of the vallies about the mountain, and Alex's troubled soul was put to a rest.
A small smile broke across his face as he rose from the glassy floor, and faced the doors of the test he had taken what seemed now so long ago. His Meshai glinted brightly with all of the light within the Chapel, and his eyes burned with a renewed spirit. producing the Redeemer from it's scabbard, it glowed beight blue, and as Alex swung it about him, it illuminated the air through which it passed, leaving a light trail. Alex grinned happily as he tossed the blade through the air, weaving his magics about it, making the blade dance like a living thing, and eventually calling it back to his hand. For the first time since Orocia had left him he was happy.
He laid the Redeemer across the altar and removed his heavy cloaks, laying them easily across one of the foremost pews, and brushing his jacket down a bit. There was nothing else in the Chapel, and the eerie silence was comforting. He sat upon one of the hard pews, next to his snowy garments to meditate for just a few moments, and before he knew it, he had passed into a sleep unlike any other he had ever experienced.. It was utterly peaceful, dreamless, and yet, entirely satisfying. But he slept for a long time, and days passed as he slept, so great was the depletion of his heavenly power, the even the reserves of the Chapel itself could not recharge them that quickly.
But little did he know, he was not only being replenished of his light and eternal fire, he was also being held for another reason...
Cue: Eloise
__________________
We all want to change the world...
Posted by Sekirah Partam on 05-27-2002 02:58 AM:
Sekirah rose, somewhat clumsily, from his tent and once again thanked the Creator for his stroke of luck. Not only did he have new clothing, (a tunic and leather vest with leather bracers, cotton pants and a fine pair of leather boots), but he was also given a much sturdier spear and a horse to ride. The only downside was Amanda insisted that she ride the horse with him and each day she rode with her arms around her waist and her body pressing up against him.
He had to admit that he liked the attention, but he couldn’t fall for her now. He knew it would just turn out the same way it had with every other woman. He’d sleep with her, maybe even stay for a week or two if he was attracted to her enough, but he would eventually leave one night without a note or any clue of where, or why, he had gone. As much as he enjoyed her affection, he wouldn’t let himself do that to her. So he played ignorant and pretended that he didn’t notice her attraction.
Amanda was annoyed beyond measure. She had made a lot of money enticing men to look at her, only to deprive them from the sex that they wanted from her. Now, the only man whose affection she had ever really wanted would barely even look at her, as far as she could tell, let alone respond to her advances. She enjoyed talking to him, and found herself revealing a lot about her life and her past as a barmaid/stripper while he revealed very little. She thought the mystery about him was very sexy, but she also knew that he had a very dark past that he wanted to leave behind him.
As he stumbled about the camp, the sun’s light crept over the eastern horizon. He quickly packed the horse and woke Amanda so he could pack the tent as well. When the young merchant woke, he was pleased to find that they were ready to travel through the pass. They had chosen this place to camp the night before because it was so near the mouth of the pass, but off the road enough that it wasn’t an obvious target for thieves. They wouldn’t have such luxury if they were forced to camp within the pass.
Fortunate for them, they made it through the pass before nightfall. Unfortunate for Sekirah, Amanda had found a new way to try and get his attention. Up to now, Sekirah hadn’t known what the outcome of her dedication had been in Noit. It became clear to him that she was dedicated to Fire, as she used her magic to increase her body-heat as she pressed against him on the horse.
‘Where is he?’ Amanda thought when she woke in the night to find that Sekirah was not in his bedroll on the other side of their tent. Confused, she dressed herself and left the tent to see if Sekirah was, perhaps, sitting up next to the fire, not being able to sleep.
To further her confusion, he was not there, or anywhere else within the camp, for that matter. She planted herself before the fire, determined to stay awake until he returned. She amused herself by using her Ki to manipulate the flames into shapes of her imagining, dancing through the night air.
The red orange tongues curled into the shape of two lovers, passionately kissing each other in a fiery embrace. It was then that she saw it. The panther crept silently out of the darkness and through the flames she could see the firelight playing upon its silvery coat.
She felt like she should scream, but she couldn’t. It caught in her throat and all that came out was a raspy breath of fear. Before she had the chance to do anything, it began to change and take form into a humanoid figure. Before she knew it, she was staring at Sekirah on his hands and knees before her, his silvery shock of hair hanging over his face. Amanda let out a sigh of relief, seeing that it was only her companion.
“What are you doing up?” Sekirah asked, plainly.
“You’re a body mage,” it was a statement more than a question and she ignored his inquiry. “You know, you really shouldn’t go creeping around in the wilderness at night. We heard rumors about Shadow Spawn in this area when we were in Corner, remember?”
“Better that I patrol the area so we aren’t taken by surprise, then,” Sekirah said. Amanda gave up and it was only then that she realized her flaming lovers were still caught in an embrace. She discontinued the enchantment and Sekirah smirked. “Goodnight Amanda,” he called out as he strolled lazily toward the tent and his bedroll.
__________________
Guilt, the merceless hunter.
Posted by Orocia Agua on 05-27-2002 03:17 AM:
OOC: errggh!! Leo, unless I'm hallucinating again (damn shrooms), didn't you write a post touching on Leo's remembrances of baby Raven being brought in by the sailors and all??? *strains brain* I can't find the post. *sigh* Just wanna make sure nothing conflicts, or at least have it all fit together and make sense in the end. Specifically the letter Orocia wrote for Raven. I never said when she wrote it, right? *hopeful*
IC:
Raven's curiosity was peaked. How much did she know?
But he had another question he wanted answered first on his mind.
"What does 'vulnerable' mean?"
Orocia turned her face, then turned her whole self around to face him, and held him lovingly by his shoulders.
A sad but sweet expression emanated from her face. "It means I feel unprotected. More like, everything can hurt me now. You feel really scared and alone when it feels like you can't do anything to stop things from hurting you."
"Oh." Raven shrank a little and looked down, "I feel like that too."
The statement was a stab to Orocia's heart. If only she could be there with him. Wherever he was. But her heart was consoled a little in that she was with him right now. Something in her wondered if this was really real or just a dream but she figured she might as well make the most of it.
She pulled him into her embrace and sat him in her lap. She kissed his cheek tenderly and asked, "Why?"
The little boy sat silent, searching for something to say, but instead gave an unsure shrug. Orocia smiled and gave the boy a reassuring hug. Whatever it was, he didn't want to say. "Well, honey, whatever it is, just know that now I'm here for you.." She began to rock back and forth gently and continued to hold him lovingly,"..you can tell me anything. ...I'll listen."
He didn't answer back, instead resting his head over Orocia's now risen and living heart. He was silently listening to her heartbeat. It sounded strong, and loving. Where, if he had listened only a few moments prior, he would have worried if there was any heart in there.
Orocia wondered how long this moment would last. Flashes of blood and torn skin and snapped bones she had somehow left now creeped into her mind.
She felt Raven fish something from inside his shirt. It helped distract her from her thoughts, as she looked down to see a silver metal locket in the shape and size of a card emerge from his shirt collar. She immediately recognized it as the locket she had fashioned for him during her two year stay in Noit after his birth. She felt that warm, fuzzy nostalgic feeling pulling her back into good times, at sight of that locket; of going up to the silversmith that Jackie had struck a deal with in making the custom silverware and other bar items for the Brass Monkey, and asking him to make the locket, having saved enough from her job as a barmaid there to spare for a fine piece of silverwork for her son. She was so devoted to Raven for those two precious years. She visited the orphanage almost everyday, and became close with Bella; with Rose she managed something of a respectful acknowledgement between them. She was practically the third matron there for those two years, helping with all the chores and developing her motherly attributes with all the children there.
She had the locket made to protect the letter she wrote to Raven not long after his birth. She wrote the letter because she knew deep down she wouldn't stay with him for long. Sometimes during those two years in Noit, she looked at him, and thought maybe, just maybe... But always she came to the conclusion that she just could never be a good mother or mentor or influence to him. She shouldn't be in his life. It pained her to think so, but for the forseeable future it was the truth. And so she wrote a long letter, meant for him to read when he was of age, to explain to her son who his real mother was, and the circumstances around his birth, and the meaning of his name and her hopes that, if he wanted to ever reach her, the letter would be his guide, and that they would meet in good times.
A soft, sad sigh drifted from her lips at the tiny heartache she now felt from leaving those good memories, and seeing her son with her, and from how awful it felt to not really be able to tell him who she was. He was too young to understand. She bowed her head to meet her son's, and rested it there, feeling his soft sable hair against her face. She watched with interest as the boy gave a lookover to both sides of the locket: one side showed The Fool; the other, Death. His brow gave to a slight furrow as he looked at the locket once again. For as long as he could remember he had this locket around his neck, or under his pillow, or stowed away in someplace in safety, and always he looked at it and knew it was special, because as Bella had told him it was from somone who loved him deeply, and that it safeguarded an important letter from that special someone which he shouldn't read until he was much older. And so the locket always held him in mystique. Namely due to the mystery of just who it was from. Bella told him it was from a "gypsy girl," which only added to the mystique. It was exactly one of those mysteries he was always told by grown-ups that he'd figure out when he grew up. But it had a special reverence to it. Bella treated it with such importance and made such a big fuss to Raven to never lose it when he was adopted. And so he treated it with gentle, curious care, deathly afraid of the nightmarish consequences he saw in his mind of losing it. The Creator would hate him forever for losing it and he'd be punished by having to be eternally chased by the Boogieman and the Cryer*(who would know he was an orphan and try even harder to steal him away) and any other horror he knew of until finally he ran into the dreaded throes of the Dark Mistress herself ---and who knew what horrors she had waiting for him, he dared not even think of it. It was practically a fact of life to safeguard the locket with his whole being, because the locket held the key to the answer. Losing it would in turn make him lost.
Suddenly his eyes looked up into Orocia's. For a long time the two shared an intimate, deep gaze with each other; Orocia felt as if he was reaching down into her soul to find that very long-searched for answer. The tumult in her heart trembled from his piercing look. At last Raven broke the gaze, looked back down at the locket in his small hands, and lifted it up to where Orocia could see in full view.
"Orocia, if you know so much, then tell me what's so special about this locket."
OOC: *a little variation of the Texas ghost story about La Llorona (The Cryer, or The Crying Woman). I forgot how it went, but I know she lost her children and her ghost comes out at night near the.. Rio Grande, I think?-- crying out for her children to come back to her. And moms would always tell their kids that if they stayed out too late La Llorona steal them away as her own. Kinda creepy. ^_^
Posted by Eloise Rane on 05-27-2002 09:40 AM:
Eloise awoke with a vigorous start that morning. Even before dawn. She lied peacefully while she waited for the sun to creep into the morning sky. When the day caught up with her, she set out. She wore her sword and dagger sheathed on either side of her, and a small canteen of water in her left hand was her only other posession. She certainly gave no outward clues as to her plans.
She rode Rafael to he outskirts of the city, then tethered him to a lone tree offside the path. She had always been on her own, but it wasn't until now that she fully acknowldeged it. She stood at the base of the mountain and peered upward, and was never more grateful that she was in good physical shape. She closed her eyes, and concentrated a few minutes, believing a strong mind was just as necessary, then began the climb up Mt. Nyliam.
As she ascended, she couldn't help but wonder how many people had done what she was now doing, who they were, and if they ever came back. She wasn't that frightened by the risks, but more curious as to to their feelings when they were in her present position, and the position that awaited her. Three or four hours into the climb the cold air began to chill her bare arms and shoulders. She felt the oxygen getting thinner and was forced to take to inhaling in short gasps.
By the time she reached the top, she had pretty lost concept of time - she had no idea how long she had climbed, whih didn't in truth seem all that unusual now that she was finally in the presence of the chapel. There was a surrealness to it, so high above the world, it seemed apart from it, even from reality itself. She was cold, but didn't enter until she had completely regained all her strength. She felt to enter such a place in any state less than her best was being disrespectful to Her.
The sight of it was breathtaking, but when she finally went in the atmoshere was quite relaxing. The air was warm and smelled softly of burning incense, and light flames flickered in golden torches lined along either wall leading to a massive set of wooden double doors at the opposite end. There was complete and calm silence in the air. She walked past row after row of ornate pews and moved to stand before a majestic and exquisite altar - when she was startled.
A sword lay across the altar. It was proud and regal-looking, and seemed to give off a soft resonant aura. This prevented her from making any attempt to touch it. Then her attention was interrupted by a soft breathing in the direction of one of the front pews.
A Holy Knight lay...asleep? He looked to be at a tremendous inner-peace, an almost hypnotic state.
She decided to leave him be and respect his privacy; she was here for a purpose, and he obviously for his own purpose as well, so she had no right to interfere. She didn't even know if she had a right to be at the Chapel. That's what was about to be determined.
She walked to the altar and kneeled, paying her respects to the Creator and engaging in a deep meditation. She remembered that the last time she had prayed was at Ja'Zuriel, the small, run-down church in Balanum where she was baptized, right before she left town.
Eventually she walked over to the stately double doors and noticed three engravings above: Courage, Faith, Temperance, which integrated to form a symbol. She understood fully what was ahead of her, and pushed the massive doors open anxious to see what lied beyond, but was only met by a blinding white light.
Her memory was wiped.
Courage
Alone in an open field. Where in Aeterna she was, she didn't know. All around her there was nothing, or no one, as far as she could see. The sky was overcast, and a dark grey, and the long grass blew restlessly in the wind. There was something... unsettling in the air. Something tense. Her mind was alerted to to a subtle danger, it pulled at her, though she could see nothing. It began to grow, and with it her heartbeat accelerated. She looked down at her hand which began to twitch, and saw the silver meshai marked upon it, but it did nothing to calm her nerves.
Finally as her senses escalated to a final peak, she turned to see the source in a pale figure in a flowing dim grey cloak. The hood covered most of its face, but the meshai under its left eye was clearly visible from beneath. It wasn't like hers...it was marked with dark streaks, to show a darkness within. The Holy energies emanating from within were intact, but something was wrong; they were clouded, distorted... tainted. It was an eerie effect. This being was not worthy of possessing the powers it did. But powerful it was, and she felt threatened. And she knew its intent.
A feeling of helplessness came over her first, knowing there was nowhere to run, no escape. Then it struck. No warning, no chance to avert or resist. A black ball of fire, square in her chest, sent her flying several feet on to the ground, exhausting all the air from her lungs. She recognized it as Holy power, but it manifested itself differently, it hurt her both physically and spiritually... her holy abilities were diminished significantly, as if corrupted by the taint. She felt weaker. She determinedly pulled out her sword sheathed beside her. He responded by doing the same, and she went at him with the primary advantage, her agility outwitted him at first, and she struck him twice on his left forearm, and once in his side, and she was hopeful. He was injured, but retaliated with a swift slash to her right shoulder, and she was caught off guard. Then she felt a sharp pain from below, and looked down to see his sword through her abdomen.
She ironically chuckled a bit, that she was in this position, and so soon into a fight...three hits she gave him, three hits...
She fell to her knees and felt warm blood enveloping her. But the helplessness was gone. She didn't feel defeated, or ashamed of herself. She did what she felt it was her will to do, and so there was no win or lose...
She felt dizzy, and closed her eyes. Her mind spinned, then was at peace as it weakened. Then everything was black.
Then a bright white light...
Faith
She was in Ioty. It was a bright and sunny day. Eloise scoured the market stands. She was back to her previous self, no longer a Holy Knight, and there was a young man with her, a good friend, who was about her age, cheerful and enthusiastic.
Eloise picked up a small pocket knife from a stand and examined it in front of the stand keeper. It was about the size of her index finger in length. He crept up behind her and whispered to her kiddingly.
"Hmm, that might be a bit big for you, no?" he chuckled.
She smirked and payed the man, then smiled at her friend. "Funny."
They continued to walk down the street to a Tavern called the Brasserie, where they sat at a corner table and talked about nothing important, and occasionally made snide jokes about various other people in the Tavern. One gruff man must have noticed; he got up and walked over menacaingly, and threw their table over on its side.
Eloise jumped up from her seat in alarm, and Tygan dodged a punch, then picked up his chair and smashed it over the man's head, knocking him to the floor. He got up, and pulled out a dagger from his scabbard. He came again at Tygan, who unsheathed his sword and quickly slashed his left side. The man howled over in pain.
"Let's go," he said, grabbing her arm, and they ran out back onto the street. When they were a safe distance down the road, he looked over at her.
"Good thing you bought that pocket knife."
They found another tavern for the night, and after he walked her to her room she went to bed. As she drifted to sleep, her mind wandered. She began to dream....
She saw a man...a man older than she...pale blonde hair, green eyes, and a red band tied aroud his head. He had the markings of the meshai embedded upon his face and hand, and he spoke to her.
"Let my words find you...
Trust me, and the Creator, and look to her for guidance, for she will always light your path...
He is imbued with the will of the Chosen; the blood of the Shadow runs through his veins, and he and those like him shall ever be a danger to what we all strive for, those that serve the Creator, and those who promote a greater good...
He must be eliminated...for the preservation of us all..."
She awoke the next morning with the dream vivid and echoing thoughout her mind, and she pushed it away forcefully, feeling terribly ashamed.
She met Tygan later in the morning, and they left to the pier, where they boarded the next boat to Gania.
They sat looking over the rail into the ocean for the most part of the day, and humorously reminisced about fights and compromising situations they had been in, although they didn't find them so funny at the time.
Suddenly, as she was musing, a voice made its way into her mind, the voice, and frightened her.
"He must be eliminated...for the preservation of us all...He must be eliminated...for the preservation of us all..."
She closed her eyes and concentrated hard. Maybe it was sea-sickness. But it didn't stop. It wasn't forceful, only a subtle presence in her conscience.
"...Eloise? Are you all right?" She looked upinto Tygan's innocent eyes.
"I...I don't feel well, Tygan."
"Maybe you should go lie down."
"I think I will."
In her bunk in her room, she lied down and tried to relax, which came easier than she expected.
"Trust me, and the Creator, and look to her for guidance, for she will always light your path...Trust me, and the Creator, and look to her for guidance, for she will always light your path..."
Am I losing it? She closed her eyes. A tremendous peace take over her mind, and a quiet assurance.
The ship docked at its port two days later. Her and Tygan walked down the ramp, Tygan already fixed on his plans for the next two days.
"I need a new scabbard for my sword. I was also thinking of getting a new hat, you know, since you miss my old blue one so much..."
She wasn't listening.
He was her friend. He saved her life more times than she could count. A warm feeling came over her as she considered all that she owed him.
When they started down the main streets toward an Inn, she pulled him into a back alley, out of view of passers-by. He looked worriedly at her.
"What is it, Eloise? Is something wrong?"
She looked honorably into his eyes. "I'm sorry, Tygan."
He gave her a puzzled look, then she drew up her pocket knife, which she had been concealing in her hand, and plunged it into his chest.
His innocent eyes looked helplessly up at her as he stumbled, coughing on blood.
Then a red light came into his eyes, and his face twisted to show a horrifyingly evil face, one that was unrecognizeble to her as the person she just saw. A black light began to eminate from within him, and for a moment he came at her at a last attempt at avenging her actions,and she steeped back, then he fell to the ground as the last of the shadow drained from his body.
A bright flash of light...
Temperance
Back in Balanum. At her home, the Rane Manor. She stood on her balcony.
Balanum had been devasted in the past few months. The country that she grew up thinking was invincible, proved not to be.
She hadn't seen her father in days. She didn't know what they did with him, if he was dead or alive.
She decided to ride into the city to the Yaren Tavern, the only place that gave her the closest thing to comfort.
She was on her third mug of ale when a thin, lithe woman in a black cloak took a seat across the table from her. She had long black hair, and menacing dark eyes.
"Eloise." Her voice was low, secretive, and had no emotion in it.
"How do you know my name?"
She smiled an evil grin. "You miss your father, don't you?"
Eloise didn't answer.
"Don't you?"
"Who are you?" she asked.
"How would you like to save him? Save your Father?"
"What are you talking about?" Eloise inquired.
Then she reached slowly into the pocket, and pulled out a gold ring. "Here, hold it..." she whispered.
Eloise took it from her. It had a deep black jewel surmounted on it, and it flashed quickly with a blazing red light when she held it, manifesting the evil inside. For a moment she was mesmerized.
"All you have to do...is wear this ring. It will give you the power will save your father."
Eloise was silent for a moment. She looked up at the dark woman. She knew what this ring was. Her fascination quickly turned to repel.
"No. I won't do it." She calmly put the ring down on the table and pushed it away.
The woman frowned. "Your father will die. I assure you, he will die."
Eloise pushed back tears. "So be it."
A bright flash of light...
And she was alone in a white room. But she didn't feel alone. She had no memory about what had happened, but her mind and body was in a state she thought not possible to any mortal being. A feeling of salvation - an inner harmony flowing through her.
...Was she dead?
She hesitated to look, but she slowly lifted her left hand before her eyes. It was there. Then the wooden doors appeared in front of her, and she pushed through them, still entranced.
Reality then replaced her captivation, and she slowly walked over to the same altar that, to her, she had just been kneeling at moments ago, and there was a new knowledge in her mind that she was the 1,315th person to ever pass the test.
She kneeled and expressed her thanks to the Creator.
Cue: Alexandros
OOC: I owe credit to quite a bit of people for this post. They know who they are.
Posted by Bara Chinder on 05-27-2002 04:26 PM:
Bad morning.
Bara woke with a start. He sat up and two seconds later fell back into his bed. He had that exploding feeling in his head again. He couldn’t think. Slowly his basic neurological functions came back. Quickly, with uncanny accuracy for such a drink stricken head, Bara rushed the important things into his mind.
Bara had, over years of anger, sorrow and use of alcohol to stem such, learned that the one time that the mind was at its most clear; was the moment that you woke up so hungover that for a few minutes you could not actually think. Through this Bara had deduced that if you could bring the most important and confusing subject into your head your brain would do anything to get it out. The most brilliant part of this theory was that everyone knows that the first thing you think of, and the first song you hear will stick in your head indefinitely. So Baras brain would immediately find a solution to the important and confusing problem and the rest of his days recovery would be spent humming every song he could think of in order to get rid of the first song.
The matter at hand was Sayomaras offer. He could see the other leaders having a problem with Bara leading the Tribes. They were all staunchly proud and convinced of their battle prowess. The fact was that they all possessed devastating traits in battle. All of them. However Sayomara had a point in his assessment of Bara as being an almost neutral figure. He also could easily see the Morrigan yielding and possibly the Cappallan with the help of Conchuir…Conchuir! He had to be told!….
So he could more or less count on the sleebhfir, invaluable in battle, he had seen their berserk dervishes on horses and on foot. The cavalry of the Cappallan were more or less sure too. But would he have the support his own tribe? And more, the fuairbionn, when could he go to them?
The solution to the Laimhs question came easily. The figure of the Ice master would be enough to sway the chiefs of the north. The Fuairbionn question would have to wait but Bara was sure that their scouting and archery skills would be an almost essential force. He would attend the first night of the council the next day.
Bara thudded down the stairs and went in search of food and water. In the kitchen he found a good pork and eggs breakfast left waiting for him, and Enda finishing his breakfast.
Enda nodded.
Bara grumbled and then put out his request. “I need you to ride to the Morrigan, she will be needed here in two days.”
Enda replied quickly. “Nat able. Its tae far.”
“Well we need to contact her. Any suggestions? She may be able to make it to here if she is contacted.” Bara was asking too much and he knew.
“A bird is all that could reach her today.” Enda replied adamantly.
So, stumped Bara made outside to converse with the two scouts, Ascher and Cainas.
They had already sent word to the chiefs in Parvini. As they had been entrusted. But it was three and a half days journey by horse.
The two scouts were however much more helpful than Enda. As they were quite familiar with the tribes, they suggested finding a hawk brother from the lok’miti. As a fast hawk could easily make it to The Morrigans hunt lands.
Preparations were in full swing as Bara hurried to Sayomaras house. He was the only man who would be able to find him a hawk brother.
OOC: Hold on a bit. More to come.
__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.
Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown
Posted by Tygan deParte on 05-27-2002 09:33 PM:
The following day Tygan, Carla, and Cybele left the in and got on their ship. Carla, like their last ride, was somewhat sick. The fact she had been thrown into the ocean last time didn’t help either.
Tygan put his arm around her and held her close as he looked out over the water, “How you holding up?”
“Uhh, not to well,” she gave a slight grin.
“Heh, well it won’t be too long of a trip, and hopefully there won’t be any storms this time,” he chuckled lightly and kissed her on the forehead. Then he got up and walked over to Cybele.
“Leave me alone……” she said in a low tone.
“I’d love to, but it’s a small ship and the only other person for me to talk to is leaning over the side.”
She gave a slight smile, but quickly got rid of it, “Well I’m no better.”
“What happened? What was all that about? And why did you let her go?”
“I let her go because she is feeling the same thing I am………..as for what happened……..it’s none of your business!” she turned away.
Tygan gave a slight sigh. This is going to be a long trip. He walked over and sat down on a crate in the middle of the deck. He slid off his lute and began to play a tune. One of the sailors came over and sat by him.
“That’s a nice tune, sounds a tid bit sad though.”
“Indeed, I’m not singing the words, but they are about a man whom is lost and alone.”
“Is that man you?”
Tygan smiled, “Perhaps I am a little lost in my life,” he looked to Carla, “But I am far from being alone.” He then looked to Cybele, “But however, I think one of my companions may be a little of both.”
The sailor looked to Cybele, “Yes, I noticed she has been down most of this trip, what’s the story?”
“I don’t know, she won’t tell…..”
“Ah, then it is most likely a lost love,” the sailor looked around then gave Tygan a pat to the shoulder, “I must be back to work, perhaps play something a bit more happy? Your making me feel down,” he grinned.
Tygan laughed, “Sure thing.”
The ship docked at Gania the following day and the three companions got off the ship. Tygan and Carla would be looking for Palin, as for Cybele, only she knew her path.
__________________
Can't say you'll lose if you never try.
Can't say you've won, if you happen to die.
---------------------------------
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus.
Let us rejoice then, while we are young.
---------------------------------
To die is to sleep, only you forgot to turn on your alarm.
Posted by Palin Freeborn on 05-28-2002 11:04 AM:
A reunion........
Palin awoke to the sight of chaos. Not utter chaos, but the chaos which comes from inside one person and slowly rubs off on another. Stewards ran about, relaying messages between the castle's inhabitants. Soldiers were searching every inch of the castle and the surrounding grounds. Even King Rosenblade was up and walking quickly, despite his age.
Palin sat up and put on his shirt, then slipped out of bed and out the open door. Saeth stood outside the elwain mistresses' door (a person who, even though their rooms were side-by-side, Palin had still not caught sight of.) Palin approached Saeth and inquired to the source of the madness.
"It is the human called Scarlet. She had vanished. The castle is searching desperately for her, but I doubt they will find her. It seems that the meetings to be held here shall not continue." Palin grimaced. He had waited a good deal of time for the meetings to begin, so he could find out what exactly was going on. However, Til'sylvanna seemed to be having her own problems, and now Scarlet was nowhere to be found. It was fortunate that the castle had such a good training room.........
One of the stewards approached Palin where he stood.
"Sir? I'm here with a message from the King. He wants to enlist your help in the search for the Princess." Palin sighed, but knew it was for the best.
"Alright. I'll check the city and docks. See if anything has come up recently."
"Thank you sir." The steward shuffled off. Palin gathered his gear and continued to the castle's front gates. ***********************************************
Palin and Reina had been searching most of the day, but found nothing. The sun was already beginning it's descent, so they continued to the docks, to check if Scarlet had booked passage. Unfortunately, they did not find Scarlet, but something else altogether.
"TYGAN?! CARLA??!! CYBELE???!!!"
Cue: Tygan
__________________
Being a hero is not some title to obtain or a term to be used lightly. It is a matter of essence and is reserved for those with only heart and soul guiding their actions.
Posted by Sen Kisai on 05-28-2002 02:57 PM:
Sen gave a smile to Kane, but his mind was elsewhere, “Beat you? Well maybe next time you won’t wear out before we are done.”
“Wear out? Me? You were the one taking the beating!” Kane grinned.
“Yes, well no one said I was a champion sword fighter. Sure, I like athletics, but weapon fighting was never my style.”
“I could tell,” he was about to say more but Sen stood up.
“Could you excuse me? I think I should go see Merelania.”
“Umm….ya sure,” Kane said somewhat unhappily.
Sen made his way upstairs, getting a glass of water for Merelania from the bar before hand. He got up to the room and knocked on the door, to see if she was awake.
“Yes?” she called from inside.
“It’s Sen.”
“Come in.” Sen opened the door and saw her lying in bed, still looking extremely weary. He walked in and sat down in the chair that was beside the bed.
“Here I brought some water for you,” he held out the glass for her.
She smiled lightly, “Thank you.” She took the water and took the occasional sip from it.
“So..umm…how are you feeling?” he knew why she had fainted and was extremely worried, but tried to hide it for he knew Kane’s feelings.
“Terrible,” she laughed, “I don’t know what came over me.”
“It was the magic…..”
“What?”
“Magic….it’s the only downfall to magic….too much use will drain our bodies….sometimes even kill the caster.”
“Oh…”
“I’m glad you lived,” he gave a slight smile.
She returned the smile, “I guess I’ll have to learn my limits.”
“We both will….” The conversation went silent for awhile, Sen looked out the window staring up into the sky, unsure of what to say and not wanting to show too much emotion. Merelania sipped her water and was silent in thought.
Sen finally looked back to her and put a hand on her shoulder, “I……I should go.” He stood up.
“You ok?” She asked.
“Yes, just fine,” he smiled, “Now get some sleep, you’ll need some time to get your energy…..If…..If you need anything, just call for me.”
__________________
I may look weak, but you'd be amazed by how fast I can run!
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 05-28-2002 08:09 PM:
Scarlet had spent most of the night up a towering oak tree on the outskirts of Fayre. Fingers of sunlight crept across the moistened grass, rousing her from a light slumber. The night before she had managed to join the last group of merchants passing through the waygate recently erected in Gania. The waygate troubled her, especially since the other end was located in newly acquired Nylian territory. Had she known about its construction she would have advised her father against it. Why he had allowed it to be built despite what Scarlet had told him about the empire was beyond her, but right now the waygate was on the lower end of her list of concerns.
Her morning grooming consisted of no more than merely running her fingers through her hair, easier now with its shorter length, and established her surroundings. To her right lay the devastated city of Fayre, dozing like a sleeping ant hill in the early morning sun and to her left was mostly open field. As much as she wanted to avoid it, she felt it necessary to stay in Fayre for a few days, at least until she was able to obtain information on the current state of Asheri. She had heard rumors of masses of shadowspawn sweeping through the countryside like a carnivorous mass of locusts, destroying and devouring everything in their path.
She jumped to the ground, wincing at the bone jarring impact and began the trek to the imperial city.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Volsung on 05-28-2002 09:45 PM:
Volsung meets the Magi
Nascent flew towards the island Volsung could see the Temple at the top, but he wasn’t sure where Nascent was leading him. After a few more minutes Nascent turned to the backside of the mountain then started flying straight at the mountain, but when they hit the rock it turned out the be a hidden tunnel leading into the mountain. “Ah its good to see some things don’t change.” He said and they came to rest on the Ground again. Nascent moved quickly though the tunnels he had been lived there for the better part of his life a loved them all and knew they better then the backside of his hand. Right past the entrance there Guard post that had been cut from the wall, Nascent popped his head in, “Can you take tell Estor and Hordor that Nascent is back from Gran Adageros and wishes to speak to both of them.”
The guarded Stopped for a moment as if he as looking for the right words, “Nascent I you really been out a the loop for a long time. Estor, and Hordor are dead.” Said the guard in a somber tone.
“No, when did this happen?” As Volsung looked at Nascent he looked as if he on the verge of tears.
“They were both Killed in the Battle of Fayre.”
Nascent stopped crying, “Who now holds Agrian Wind.”
“The sword was lost but now Inderon and Keyes Lead us.” At the mention of Inderon and Keyes, Nascent expression changed from sadness to anger. The Guards stop in fear, but under Nascent glare he was force to continued, “W..wwould you like m..me to take you to them.”
“Yes I would.” Volsung didn’t know what to make of the would thing but it sure looked like Nascent had something one his mind.
After a few minutes, the guard led Volsung and Nascent to the inner chamber. Mountain. “I bring to the Fates one Nascent and one Volsung Vesper.”
“Come in.” called a voice. The guard left and Nascent when it to the camber. “Nascent its so..”
Nascent cut him off, “How can you two be sitting when our most holy relic is lost. A gift from the Creator herself something that has been with us and only with us for that lat 40 years.”
“I was going say its good to see you but I guess you don’t feel the same. In any case you have no right to talk, you were one the great leader of the Magi then you leave us for some small assignment in Gania. Leaving us with almost not gulden’s when Estor and Hordor died. So you have NO RIGHT TO TALK.”
“Calm down Inderon, you know Nascent had not choose in going to Gania. Now as for the Sword we have been looking for that nonstop since the city was cleared out but as far was we know the sword might be in the hands of Linerin.” Said Keyes
“Well that is why I’m here Volsung and myself have been Gathering information about Nyliam for the last three mouths. In that time we came to learn that the Tribes of gathering together to drive the shadow out of Farai. Now I’m here to ask for the help of the Magi.” Said Nascent
“Well I don’t think we can do that at this time. Many of the Magi are still recovering from making the portal to Gania.” Said Keys
Volsung step forward. “We aren’t asking for all the Magi to help us just as many as you can spare.”
“I just don’t think we can help very much we have our own concerns to think about.” Said Inderon
“Well if you won’t do it because of your good nature then maybe you will do it because of this.” Then Volsung pulled out the Sword of Fire. “This is the Sword of Fire it’s a Ki blade much like your Agrian Wind, now would you like to find out if your Magi will follow it in the lack absence of Agrian Wind or are you going to help us?”
The two pause and talked to one anther for a moment, then the Turned to Volsung and Nascent, “The Ki blade has convinced us that your idea is right and true to that end we will have 100 of the Magi waiting for you in Nevyel.”
“Thank you,” Then Nascent and Volsung left.
**********************
After they were out of the Mountain Nascent spoke up, “That was a smart move back there in the fates chamber. Those two noodle brains didn’t even know what to make of it. So they just bowed to our will rather then risking than risking their own power.”
“Well I want to help Sayomara and if this sword can help that’s all that matters.”
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 05-28-2002 09:58 PM:
Pulling her horse behind her, she looked at the sea as she got off the ship. Now a sea was between her and Azure’s remains. She couldn’t stand moving on this quickly, and she obviously hasn’t. Looking down as she walked on the dock by Tygan and Carla she heard a noise of a familiar sound.
“Tygan? Carla!? Cybele!??”
She looked up and saw Palin starring at them as if surprised to see them. Noticing a young woman beside him, she could already tell he was well happy with his life also. The red lines from crying were way too noticeable, and she feared Palin would start to ask questions. Moving to the side of her horse, she knew it was not good for her to be there. Tears were falling again as she thought of Azure and soon couldn’t take the thought of company anymore. She jumped on her horse and raced from the docks, leaving behind the friends from the past.
Riding slowly into town, she looked at her hometown with a feeling of uncertainty that it was hers. She wasn’t used to being so far away for a long time. The inns and started to look familiar as she came closer to her home. She then stopped to the inn where she talked to the ox betty, and quickly moved on to lose all memory of her. She knew exactly where to go to next. Home. Although this seemed rather odd since it was burned. The place where it stood seemed just as good as the home itself. Plus the lake by it was her place to think. She hadn’t sat by there in a long time.
The ground was lovely green grass now and the tree by the lake still stood over. She rode the horse over by the tree and tied her to it. The two rocks by the lake had withered down a little bit, probably due to rain. She sat by the biggest one and starred at the water. She began to see some eyes, and a nose , a mouth. They all resembles her mothers. Her full face began to show and suddenly her mouth moved. They seem to tell of words but she couldn’t hear her voice.
Can you hear me now?
“Mother?”
Tis I. But I’ll be only here for a short while.
“How long?”
Only long enough to tell you what I need to.
She started to look sad. Not seeing her mother for years took its toll, and it almost seemed as if she didn’t want her to leave.
The fact is Cybele you need to be alone. You rely too much on who to be happy with and how unpleasant you are. When you’re really, deep inside, the best person you can be.
“Why are you saying this?”
I’m just warning you, for you may become vulnerable in the future.
__________________
Posted by Tygan deParte on 05-29-2002 02:38 PM:
Tygan turned in the direction of the shout and saw the most unexpected character, “PALIN!!” he shouted, happy to see his friend. Cybele rode off suddenly, Tygan was about to say something, but figured she just needed time alone.
Palin ran over to Carla and Tygan, giving them both a friendly hug, “I…I thought you two were dead!”
Tygan laughed and put an arm around Carla, “We thought we were too.” Palin took note that the two seemed much closer than before.
“Ya, somehow we washed up onto shore practically right by eachother!” said Carla.
“Fate does strange things,” then Palin look back and motioned for his companion to come forward, “I want you two to meet Reina, I met her on my travel back to Gania.”
“Hello Reina!” Tygan shook hands with her, “Tis a please.”
“Hi Reina, friend of Palin’s eh?” Said Carla with a smirk.
Reina laughed, Palin’s cheeks turned a tint of pink, “You could say that.”
Then Palin motioned to his two old friends, “Reina, this is Carla.”
The two shook hands, “Yep, Carla Blanche!”
“Blanche?” ask Palin.
Tygan and Carla both laughed, “There are a few things you don’t know.”
“Ah…..” he then looked to Tygan, “And this chap here is Tygan deParte, second best sword fighter in all Aeterna!”
Tygan raised an eyebrow, “Second best? Last I remember I was in the lead.”
“True, but I’ve fought a fair bit since then.”
“As have I, I guess we have a few stories to tell,” the two old friends smiled to eachother.
“Would you two like to join us for a bit, we are looking for Scarlet Rosenblade.”
“Rosenblade!” said Carla in shock, “But…that is the royal family?”
“Yes…Part of that long story I have to tell, in fact I am staying at the castle. I am sure I could get rooms there for the both of you.”
Tygan grinned, “Thank the creator for that, we are flat out broke, I had to work as a deckhand simply to get us across the sea.”
Palin burst into laughter, “You?? Work?? O to hell I missed it.”
“What can I say, some things change. Hell, even my look changed.”
Palin had been so overjoyed to see them he hadn’t even noticed that Tygan now wore white and black, “Hmmm….it’s different….but I like it, you even got rid of that floppy hat!”
__________________
Can't say you'll lose if you never try.
Can't say you've won, if you happen to die.
---------------------------------
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus.
Let us rejoice then, while we are young.
---------------------------------
To die is to sleep, only you forgot to turn on your alarm.
Posted by Bara Chinder on 05-29-2002 03:17 PM:
Sayomara had been more than obliging. The Hawk was sent almost immediately. As Bara pondered the Laimh Dearag he saw Ascher and Cainas. They looked quite tired but brought good news. According to them, a delegation from Rysend were already on their way. The two had set off to report and high tailed it back to Parvini. As for the sleebhfir he knew they would come.
It was in this state wandering towards the lodgings that Bara was confronted with a most surprising sight. A small group of nomads, short and pale of skin. They were thin and had only sparing facial Tattoos.
Bara had not often been too far south but he had a fairly good idea of what the Fuairbionn looked like. Their dark almost beady eyes concealed a lot of themselves. Not that Bara was much of a judge of character.
“Curious, that they should show up.” Bara thought, he was impressed with Sayomaras work. Another thing Bara knew about them was that they had small secretive practicers of Magic. Not knowing what else Sayomara had up his sleeve and taking into account that there were flying shadow spawn, Bara thought this a useful turn out.
The Cappallan were already there so Bara had only to hope and pray that all would be here in time.
Bara paused in mid step. He was suddenly aware of how much thought he was giving to the matter. He was really getting into this. “Maybe the mage is right,” he thought.
The next day he found that his curiousness and focus had multiplied tenfold. He thought over the whole thing then thought of Conchuir. He probably had the same claim, but he had no stomach for battle and no head for it either. Where as Bara had been lost in planning for days.
As the time for the first night of the council came Bara was amazed to see The Morrigan and her group ride through the gates. They were all here now.
Bara strolled into the hall and took a seat near the back. He had decided, if Sayomara asked him again he would concede and take the helm of the army of farai.
Cue: Sayomara.
__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.
Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown
Posted by Ryudo Wolfe on 05-29-2002 04:02 PM:
Ryudo watched the door open and Tyr walk out, he smiled and ran to her, embracing her in both a hug and a kiss, “I’m glad you made it.”
She grinned, “I can see that.” There was a moment of them just looking into eachothers eyes, then instinctively they both looked down to her hand. On her hand was the mark of earth, “Earth eh? And to think….I’m a pirate of the sea,” the two laughed, then Ryudo caught site of another change.
“Where did you get that?” he pointed to a compass that was around her neck.
She looked down and put her hand on the compass, moving it around with her fingers to look it over, “I don’t know, didn’t have it before.”
“A gift from the test I guess.”
“I guess so….What do you say we get out of here, these mages freak me out.”
Ryudo laughed, “Yes, they are an odd bunch.” The two walked over to Freija.
Freija looked at Tyr’s hand, “Earth? Looks like you can repair your own ship now,” she smirked.
“Real funny, if my crew does that again I swear I’ll send them all off the plank.”
“You ready to go Freija?” asked Ryudo.
“Anytime.”
“Then let’s go,” said Ryudo. The three of them made there way through the halls and towards the exit, though they were interrupted by an unexpected visitor.
“Tribesman,” said a low voice. Ryudo turned to see an older man in robes.
“Are you talking to me?”
“Talking to you I am indeed,” the man motioned for Ryudo to come to him.
Ryudo turned back to Tyr and Freija, both gave him a questioning look, “You two head on back to the boat, I’ll catch up.” Tyr was about to argue, but Ryudo interrupted, “I’ll be fine,” he grinned, Tyr nodded. She gave him a slight kiss then Tyr and Freija left on their way to the boat.
Ryudo turned back to the old man and walked towards him, “Who are you, and how did you know I was a tribesman?”
“Know much I do, half-elven and half-tribesman, mage you are as well,” the old man smiled.
“Fine, know much you do, but what do you need with me?”
“Need nothing I do, but information have I.”
“On what?” Ryudo was a little interested, but he also considered the fact that this man may be crazy.
“Brewing a war is, gather the tribes do.”
“The tribes are gathering?”
“Indeed, Parvini they do go, magi agree to help they do, a shadow covers the land it does.”
“Shadow…..so the tribes gather in Parvini for a war?” Should I…no….but my father could be there, if this man speaks truly then all the tribes will be present, this could be my only and best chance.
“Go will you?”
“I…Yes….I will go, but why did you tell me of all people?”
“Strong you are, secret you have, past you find….” The man wandered off down the halls, still speaking reasons. Ryudo thought about following him, but knew the conversation was over.
**********************************
Tyr and Freija stood on the beach by the rowboat, Ryudo ran down to them, “Sorry about that.”
They both raised an eyebrow, “What was that all about?” asked Tyr.
“He just wished to inform me of something,” Ryudo said in a somewhat low tone, as if his mind was off somewhere.
“Inform you of what?” asked Freija.
“That I need to go to Parvini….there is a meeting of the tribes there, apparently a war is brewing between the tribes and the dark army that has been ravaging the land.”
Tyr’s eyes widened, “Fighting against those black beasts?”
“Yes…” he looked Tyr in the eyes, “I have to go, there is something from my past I must discover.”
“And what of us?”
“I know you have your crew to lead, and if you can not join me, then I promise with all my heart that I will return to you.”
Tyr smiled slightly though she was sad at the news, “Then we best be off, the quicker this is done with the better.”
They took the rowboat to the ship and in under an hour they were on their way back to Nevyel.
__________________
The oceans, the lakes, the seas. The waves, the surf, the dolphins. The sword, the armor, the battle. The strength, the earth, the energy. I am a sailor, I am a warrior, I am a mage.
Posted by Regit Seye on 05-29-2002 04:32 PM:
The first step...
Regit Seye steps carefully off the gangplank of the ship that had just docked on the Island of Noit. He listened carefully to the sounds around him, then began to walk confidently in the direction of the noise that sounded most like a town.
After a moment of walking, he stops and listens again. He hears the clinking of glasses and drunken songs, and he moves towards that sound now. He feels the slight tug of magic from further into the city, but he pushes it from his mind and enters the bar.
Inside, he moves carefully around the semi-crowded common area and steps up to the bar, the source of many clinks and gurgles, the sure sign of the source of drinks. He sits and motions the bartender over to him.
"Yes?"
"I need to know... this is Noit, the place where one can be dedicated, correct?"
The bartender stands still for a moment, and Regit sighs. He deposits a small silver coin on the bar, which vanishes into the many pouches of the bartender's apron.
"Yes, this is Noit. The Temple rests in the middle of the city, though... you're blind, right? I can get you a guide cheap..."
Regit shakes his head and stands.
"I'll be fine. Just needed to make sure where I was. Thanks!"
Regit exits the bar faster than the bartender can follow, leaving him slightly dazed.
"How's a blind guy going to get to the Temple alone...? His loss."
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 05-29-2002 04:41 PM:
“Vulnerable???”
She watched the water closely while the head nodded in recognition. She couldn’t see why she would be taken advantage of. As far as she knew she was the best investigator in the area. Deciding not to reply she waited for another comment from her mother.
I’m just warning you now. Please be careful out there.
She smiled. Basically her mother was protecting her from the world. It seemed as if Cybele needed this for the past time since she left, she knew nothing about it.
“I guess this is the part where you tell me you love me and say goodbye.”
You were always the brightest. Before I go please promise me that you will be cautious on every road you take. Even the ones here.
“Alright I promise.”
Good. Its time for me to go now. I love you sweetheart.
The face soon began to fade away as she said this, and Cybele was almost afraid she wouldn’t reach her.
“I love you too!”
The face was gone. She already felt the pain of when her mother was first killed. This needed to be quickly killed before she would do something to join her mother. She decided to take a walk through town again, to talk to the normal folks. Thinking that she may get something there she walked back to the giant rock. There she dung through the earth beside it until she came to a small box. She placed the small box on the rock and opened it. In the box were three small bags of money. They were from what was left of the fire scene. She picked one up and closed the box. Placing it in her dress, she picked up the box with her other. She put the box back into the ground and covered it. Her hands were moved to the bottom of the rock and she slightly tried to pick it up. Under it was her old journal that she used as a child. She picked it up and put it on her belt. She quickly dropped the rock and walked back to her horse by the tree.
The horse was soon untied. Cybele got on it and rode back on the path into town. Not noticing the old places that she had passed she entered town looking for a nice place to eat. She rode slowly due to the slightly crowded street. Looking to her right she saw an inn that looked as if it was ok. She jumped off her horse and walked into the inn. A chair by a small table near the window seemed to be the right spot for her to sit. She didn’t seem to notice anyone as she walked to the table and sat down quietly. The window was small but she looked at the city scenery as if it were a great portrait. Looking a cross the street she noticed something that just wasn’t there before. A big circle of blue was there and seemed to be out of place.
Big carts that wheeled in goods were in line standing in front of two guards that seemed to be taking a tax.
“Its 5 grans. Hurry up we have people waiting.” said one of the guards
Interested in what it all was she asked a waitress about it.
“Excuse me. Miss?” she lifted up her hand as if ready to order
“I guess your ready. What will ya have?”
“Um…. I’m not hungry mam. But I would like to know what that is.” she said as she pointed out the window.
“Oh that? It’s some type of portal or something. Supposed to be quick travel to Asheri.”
Asheri huh? This seems interesting.
“When was it made? I haven’t seem it here before.”
“Not quite long ago actually. They used a whole bunch of mages for it.”
Haven’t been there before. Looks like something I should try.
“Thank you mam.”
“Your welcome. Anytime.”
She quickly went back to her business while Cybele kept starring at the window. Her mind kept wondering of what neat things could be over there. Her curiosity ran so far that she knew she had to go. She immediately got up and walked straight out of the inn. The feet stopped as she looked at it size. It seemed to scare her, she didn’t know what a portal was like either.
It probably wont hurt… Maybe..
She slowly began to cross the street talking in possibilities of what could happen to her. The line was moving quickly and she waited only a couple of seconds before it was her turn to go.
“Alright. Pay the tax.”
“How much is it?”
“Five grans. Pay it or leave.”
She pulled out her small sack and picked out the amount needed. The money was placed into the guard’s hand and she was permitted to go. Walking up the steps she felt more scarred of what was on the other side. Facing her fears was one problem that needed to be gotten rid of. In order to start she stopped in front of the portal and took a deep breath. In went her hand first and the rest of the body followed.
__________________
Posted by Lloyd Cordell on 05-29-2002 09:53 PM:
Meeting of the past, plans of the future....
“Lyfel….Lloyd!” called Sir Cadrian. The two boys quickly ran to him, standing strait and firm, as they had been taught.
“Yes sir?” they said.
Sir Cadrian smiled at the two and put a hand on each of their shoulders, “Today you two become men, you will get your chance to participate in the contests. The choice of which you do is yours.”
Both of the boys smiled, but quickly fought it back and put on a stern look, nodding in understanding.
“Lyfel, what would you like to do?” He said with fatherly love, truly proud of his son and knowing that his son would do extremely well.
“I would like to do sword fighting!”
Cadrian grinned, happy with his son’s choice, “And you Lloyd?”
Lloyd considered the different choices, but unconsciously blurted out, “Knife throwing!”
“What??” Sir Cadrian looked disgusted in the least, “That is no type of activity for a knight!” He looked up at the different options, “You will do Mace Fighting.”
“But…”
“But what?!?”
“N..nothing sir,” Lloyd kept his facial features firm until Cadrian walked off to sign the boys up for their contests.
Lyfel turned to Lloyd, “We finally get to participate! I’m going to win the sword fighting, father will be so proud!”
Lloyd nodded, “Ya sure.”
“What’s the matter with you? Knife throwing is a joke, your lucky to do mace fighting, it’s one of the hardest and most dangerous.”
“Oh, great, just what I always wanted,” Lloyd mumbled. Lyfel smiled then ran off to go watch the sword fighting.
Lloyd looked around, then walked over to the mace fighting, scraping his feet on the ground and keeping his head down. As he got close he heard the sounds of metal on metal. He looked up to see two fully plated figures in the ring beating each other with maces; one of them was doing extremely well and was bashing the other in the chest repeatedly.
“There is no way I’m going in there, they will bloody kill me!” Lloyd looked around; he caught sight of the sign-up stand, suddenly an idea popped into his head. He ran over to the stand and stood strong, trying to look as if he was doing something very normal and casual.
“What can I do for you?” asked the man behind the stand.
“A change of contest for Lloyd Cordell.”
“A change eh?” He looked the boy over, and then nodded, “Ok, what change?”
“Change from Mace Fighting to Knife Throwing.”
The man looked him over again, “Interesting change, extremely different events, you sure?”
“Absolutely,” Lloyd said, almost as if the man was crazy.
***************************************
Lloyd traveled around the events for a little, he saw Lyfel win a sword fight and Cadrian win a joust. Then he made his way to the knife-throwing contest. Once he arrived he was given a spot in the line of men and given three knives.
The announcer stood up on his raised platform, “My fair gentlemen, this contest includes three throws, he who throws the best three, wins the contest. If there appears to be a tie, those whom have tied will go on to a second round. Now, throw your first knives!”
All of the men threw their knives, most getting around the center. Lloyd threw his and hit the direct center. The man beside him nodded, “Not bad kid, good form.”
“Second throw!” The announcer called.
Again the men threw their knives, and again Lloyd hit the center.
“Third throw!”
The men threw their knives for the final throw, Lloyd hit the center again, his 3 daggers side by side.
“Well kid, I think you won,” whispered the man beside him. The announcer came off his platform and walked down the row of targets, nodding to those whom threw well. When he arrived at Lloyd’s he stopped and looked at the target in amazement.
“I think we have our winner folks!”
**************************************
Lloyd was overjoyed for the rest of the day, until he stood beside his father and brother at the calling of the awards.
"Oh no! I won the knife throwing!
An elegantly dressed man stood in front of the crowd, beside him were trophy bearers, “Now it is time for the awards to be given to those brave and skilled warriors whom won the contests.”
“For jousting…..Sir Cadrian!” Sir Cadrian moved away from the two boys and stood in front of the crowd as his reward was given to him. He stayed there as the next was called.
“For Sword fighting……Lyfel, son of Sir Cadrian!” Lyfel walked up and took his reward, he stood by his father.
“For mace fighting…….Lord Brescorn!” The man whom Lloyd had seen winning walked up and took his reward. Lloyd looked to Sir Cadrian. Sir Cadrian nodded to Lloyd, he understood that mace fighting was hard to win and was at least glad Lloyd made an attempt.
“For knife throwing…….Lloyd Cordell!” Lloyd hesitated, then walked forward, catching a glimpse of the glares that both Sir Cadrian and Lyfel gave him.
Lloyd was given his reward of a golden blade, then the announcer went on, but Lloyd was to deep in thought to hear the rest. What kind of trouble will I be in?
************************************
“LLOYD!!” Sir Cadrian bellowed, Lloyd stood in front of him, keeping his emotions hidden behind a mask of training.
“How dare you go against my word! If I tell you to mace fight, then you mace fight! Hell! If I tell you to die! Then you die!”
“Yes sir!”
“Did I tell you to speak?!” He glared, “I am tired of your insolence, you are no longer my squire! I do not wish to see you again! As for your father, I shall explain to him your wrong doings!” With that Sir Cadrian and Lyfel walked off, leaving Lloyd to stand alone.
Lloyd could care less what Sir Cadrian told his father, he hadn’t seen his father for almost 9 years. But the thought of being left alone did frighten him.
****************************************
Lloyd sat alone, looking up into the sky as the cool breeze washed over him, “What will I do? Where will I go?” He heard some footsteps and looked over to see a few of the men from the knife-throwing contest, “Hello.”
“Hello boy, we heard about your misfortune. And, seeing as you’re a peasant again, we feel that you are not worthy of that reward, these are contests for the higher classes!”
“I won the contest, I keep the reward!” Lloyd was tired of taking crap from people.
“Give it to us boy, or we WILL hurt you!”
With the flick of his wrist Lloyd threw a throwing knife into one of the men's stomach. No one had expected this, not even Lloyd. As he saw the blood soak into the man’s clothing he knew what kind of trouble he was in. Without a second thought he began to run, the men chasing after him, shouting threats.
Sweat began to condense on his brow when suddenly he was pulled up into a tree and a hand went over his mouth. He struggled for a moment, but a female voice calmed him, “Shh, I’m helping you.”
The men passed below them, and once they could no longer be heard, the hand let go of him. He turned to see a beautiful young girl around his age, it was the same girl he had watched at the circus all of those years.
******************Three Years Later******************
“Wooooo!!” Rhea leaped off a tree branch, doing a flip and diving into the water. Lloyd laughed, they had come to this lake all the time since they met three years earlier, “Ok, your turn!”
“Ya ya, I’m coming!” He ran along the branch but slipped as he was jumping, “Shiiiiiiii….” He splashed into the water, the only sound he could hear was Rhea’s laughing.
“You are such a klutz,” she said while laughing at him.
“O shut up!” He grinned and splashed her with water.
They both laughed and did a little mock fight in the water. After a few minutes they got out and lay back on the sand. Throughout the past years they had been doing small adventures in the city, occasionally talking about leaving, but now was the time.
“What do you say we get out of here?” said Rhea.
“Like we always talked about?” asked Lloyd.
“Ya, go out and see the world, do some good and maybe even cause some trouble,” she grinned.
“Hah! Well…..I guess I’m up for it.”
__________________
Life is like a throwing knife.....once you toss it, there is no turning back.
Posted by Rhea Wildfire on 05-30-2002 04:16 PM:
“Good. Meet me at the circus tomorrow. After my performance we’ll leave.”
She had waited years for this moment. The circus life had been tiring and soon it wasn’t what she thought it was anymore. It just didn’t seem to interest her as much. Plus the world outside of it would be so much fun. By now she had done some great single shows on the high wire and soon became the main attraction. This was great to some point but she also wanted to do some other things. She liked the thought of the world beyond. It seemed to interest her about the wars and things in history. If there were any war to join in she would do it just to have something to talk about in the future. Her parents of course would not exactly go with this. They needed her for the attraction of audiences. Plus her mother was still very protective of her despite her age.
“Alright. Lets get out of here. I think the people are starting to watch,” replied Lloyd
Lloyd watched as a guard of one of the expensive mansions starred at the two of them. Rhea turned from Lloyd to notice the guard and wasn’t sure it was safe for them to be there.
“Hey! Why don’t you mind you own business??”
“Yea. Its not like were swimming in someone’s lake!”
They had come to this place since they met but didn’t exactly know if this lake did in fact belong to someone. The guard started to move quickly to the lake. The two already knew it was time to leave since the sun was setting but this made their escape go bye even faster. Rhea immediately started swimming to the side of the lake as soon as the guard moved. Lloyd soon realized they were in danger and followed her. Their clothes were hanging on a tree limb over the lake. Rhea walked out the lake and jumped on the limb to grab her pants and coat. She jumped down off the tree and walked behind it to change quickly. Soon Lloyd ran up after her. Going to the limb he kept jumping to grab his pants and vest. Rhea came from behind the in split seconds. Knowing that she had to stall the guard she slowly moved to when the guard was coming in. The guard soon was standing beside the lake scratching his head in confusion. Since the guard was as stupid as she hoped she slowly crept back to the tree. When she got back Lloyd was standing there leaning on the tree as if he had been waiting a long time.
“Guess it’s a long walk huh?” asked Lloyd sarcastically
“No, just need to make sure it was ok to go…”
“Hey! You two, stop!” yelled the guard
“Looks like its time to go.” said Rhea with a smile
Right next to the tree was a wall, which they would always climb over to get to the lake. Rhea climbed onto the tree a walked on a limb over the wall. She jumped down and started running now waiting for Lloyd. Lloyd jumped onto the wall and climbed over. He fell onto the ground rolled over and got back up running. They ran down the street to the setup of the grand circus. The two stopped and dusted off there clothes so that it didn’t look like they had gone anywhere. They walked back onto the site.
__________________
And on the flying trapeze you see...
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 05-30-2002 07:07 PM:
Eremon clenched his fist tightly and gazed out into the afternoon. It had been two days since they discovered the mound of red hair in the middle of Scarlet’s room and no trace of their daughter. He felt his wife’s tentative touch on his shoulder and clasped her hand in his own.
“These are strange times,” she said.
“They are indeed,” was his reply. After a moment’s deliberation he continued. “She may have used the waygate. I’ll send a party to the Nyliam empire and inform them of our situation.”
Tiamat looked sharply at her husband. “Do you really think that’s wise?”
“What can we do? They are not our closest ally, but we need their help.” He then turned and left his fretful wife alone in their chambers.
********************
Unaware of the actions taking place to locate her, Scarlet decided to end her stay in Fayre that morning. She had heard tales of the destruction in across the continent but was determined to press westward. Fayre held too many memories. A lump rose in her throat as she recalled her purpose for leaving. She had to stop Reika before she could harm anyone else Scarlet held dear and she would take revenge for her childhood friends, Caitlin and Bres. The thought that she would somehow be freeing her sister from the Shadow brought very little comfort, but it was enough to keep her pressing onward in her pursuit.
She traveled by foot out of the city that morning, wishing to conserve as much energy as she could in case of any unforeseen attack from spawn or thieves. On her right hand, the ring of Modros glimmered in the sun, sending tiny sparks of red light dancing across the grass while on her left, the summoning ring that Reika had bestowed upon her at the beginning of her adventures glowed faintly as Scarlet walked down the deserted highway.
That same afternoon an entourage of diplomats arrived at the gates of Nyliam requesting to see the Emperor Aramus VanVehementi about the whereabouts of the missing princess.
CUE: Aramus. Let's get this party started. Mwahahaha!!
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Lloyd Cordell on 05-30-2002 07:33 PM:
The two got back to their tent and went inside, still laughing about the pathetic guard. They had stayed in the same tent for the last three years since Lloyd was pretty much homeless after being banished from being a squire and Rhea had him stay with her. At first it was a bit uncomfortable for Lloyd, but now it was an everyday thing, and though he of course still found her quite attractive, he was used to the entire loss of privacy. Rhea was fine with it from the start, being in the show business it was a common thing to change between acts with other people around.
Once in the tent Rhea took off her shirt and tossed it to Lloyd, “Hey want to pass me those clothes? We need to get packed up then I’m going to sleep, have the show tomorrow.”
“Sure thing,” Lloyd gathered her clothes and brought them to her, she searched through them, only picking her favorites since she couldn’t take them all.
Lloyd did the same, though he never had many clothes in the first place. They also packed a few rations and other necessities for travel.
Lloyd stretched then took off his shirt and pants and began to fold his pants so that they wouldn’t be wrinkled in the morning. Rhea jokingly whistled at him and gave him a wink.
“Bah, stop taunting me!”
“Taunting you? Was just a friendly wink,” she grinned.
“And the whistle?”
“What whistle?” she said with a smirk. He threw his shirt at her, “You’re not getting this back!” she said while laughing.
“Is that so? You know there are much more dangerous things I can hit you with.”
She raised an eyebrow, “Is that so?” she said mockingly.
“Gah, you know what I mean!”
Rhea cracked up laughing then tossed his shirt back to him. He folded it up and set it down on top of his pants. When he turned back she had her pants off and was crawling in bed, “I’ll see you in the morning,” she said.
He walked over to his own bed and got in, “Ya, I’ll be watching your show. I hope you fall,” both of them laughed.
“Well I’ll make sure to land on you if I do!”
Lloyd’s night was full of dreams. He dreamt of the travels to come mostly. There was one part where Rhea and he were in a bar just drinking, laughing, and ranting on about their great adventures. Other times they were fighting the beasts that the gypsies so often told young children about. Then there were simply the warm summer days on the road, the sun up above, the grass waving with the wind, and the trees casting their cool shadows across the road.
When he woke up he crawled out of bed and saw that Rhea was already dressed for her show, “Sleep long enough?” she asked with a smile.
“Well I had some interesting dreams.”
“Really? About what?”
“Us…and our travels to come.”
“So did I! That’s just another reason for us to go!”
“That or it just shows it’s all we can think about,” he grinned.
“True enough, I can’t wait till this show is over,” she went over and gave him a friendly hug, “The show starts soon hurry up and get dressed. Wish me luck will ya?”
“Luck? I already told you to fall didn’t I? Well….I guess I can…..Goodluck and break a leg.”
“O! You and your dang criticism!” she pushed him so that he fell back and stumbled over the edge of his bed, “And don’t say you didn’t deserve that!”
Lloyd laughed, “I’ll be there soon,” he got up, “O ya, and goodluck.”
__________________
Life is like a throwing knife.....once you toss it, there is no turning back.
Posted by Sayomara on 05-30-2002 08:11 PM:
The Grand Counsel begins
Everyone had gathered in the town hall each of the six tribes was given 13 representatives, the Clans and the Free knights were both given seven representatives. Of course, Keigos, Elyas and the mages like Enfineous, and VegEnas Kaiyon were given places to sit as well but were given no votes since they were part of any group. The Hall itself was setup as a circle with a hole in the middle for Sayomara to Speak from. For the most part the members of the each tribe sat together. Sayomara did notice that Bara had picked a spot in the back row. “Well this doesn’t look good, Oh well guess there isn’t anything I can do about it now.” thought Sayomara as he was getting his notes together and preparing to Speak.
As the minutes passed and Sayomara took off his hat sat it on the chair witch had been given to him incase he should get tired, and while he did appreciated the thought he wasn’t going to left himself get tired during his own counsel. Without his hat Sayomara look even more so the old man. With his hat off Sayomara long white, it fell all over his shoulders, and about he face. Sayomara really didn’t like having this hair down but it was far to hot for his hat. It was about this time the last of the Laimh Dearag were showing up and taking the last seats left next to Bara. Then all the doors to the Town hall were closed and Sayomara started to speak, “Well it looks like everyone is here. I’m glad you could all come Tribal Lords, Elders, Friends, and just people who wanted to help. We are going to need all your Help if we are going to drive the Shadow from Farai. I but aside from the Melios most of you don’t get out of your part of the country very much. I’m here today to tell you how bad it really is out there and to tell you that you are not along in your Hardship.”
Sayomara paused for a moment He know just about everyone had lost someone since the shadowspawn had started attacking, but most people only thought about themselves, and didn’t see the big picture. That way he was here after all to help the Tribes to see big picture that the enemy each of them were fighting wasn’t different but in fact the same enemy. “The Shadowspawn are attacking everyone everywhere from the Slibhfir east of the Hollow Crags to the Lok'Miti in Soulwood. They are attacking the Laimh Dearag on the northern plains and the Agents of Shadow have taken Endroth in the South. You see everyone in Farai is being attacking, and alone none of us are safe. That is why I have called you all here to day, under the Farai compact witch your great, great, great Grandfathers, and Grandmothers signed is say in time of Great need the people of Farai shall come together and fight what threatens the whole. Well my Friends that time is now and the Threat is the Shadow witch we now finds a home in our land. You have seen how strong the shadow is and no one can stand alone, but together we can not lonely drive the Shadowspawn out of Farai but we can attack the Source of the Shadow.” Sayomara stopped to get the hair out of his face. “I will now give you all two hours the talk this out and decide if your tribe with commit its warriors to helping save Farai. If you like I will be here to answer any questions you may have.” With that, all the doors of the hall were opened and people started to walk out. In the mean time Sayomara sat down and put his hat back on.
“Good job,” Sayomara didn’t look up he knew it Aeveris. “I think they will all follow you into battle.”
“I should hope this isn’t the kind of think you really need to think about. But you never know As for leading the tribes into battle I don’t think so. My place is with the mages helping to keep the number Shadowspawn to a leave which the non magical forces can handle.”
“Well you have the support of the Oakrunners,” Said Aeveris as Sayomara lifted his head the see that Aeveris was still wearing nothing more then a loincloth.
Well we are still going to need a General to Lead the Tribes. I have someone in mind but I’m not sure if he’s ready let.” Sayomara stopped and looked at Bara for a moment. He hadn’t moved an inched in the ten minutes since the doors had opened. Then Sayomara turned his gaze back to Aeveris, “Has anyone seen any other signs of the shadow since those men were a run a few days ago?”
“No it worries me a little, you know it might be wise to send few people out right now to see what is going on.”
“Yes I guess your right. But, on the other hand don’t want it to look like we are scared or holding back information. Hmm, here’s what we will do. Go out and have a few of your people ready that way as soon as the Doors close have start scouting out for signs of ShadowSpawn. Understand?”
“Yep,” said Aeveris as he started walking out.
Sayomara had a few more come up to him like Pharys Pathora leader of the Free Knight who mainly wanted to know about what kind of lot was waiting for them. Which Sayomara simple answered with “a lot.” Of course, there were a few people who had real questions and Sayomara was more than Happy answered as they came up.
Two hours came and when and during that Bara never moved from his seat. Keigo on the other hand seem to he talking to just about everyone he could. But when the Doors closed everyone was there again a look ready speak out about what they had decided. “Well I hope you have made up your minds and have decides to follow the Farai compact. So, with respect the compact I will read the Tribes off as they are listed on the Compact. I then ask weather or not you will help free our land from the shadow or let it die. The First Tribe is the Laimh Dearag, Are with us?”
The Laimh Dearag chieftain stood up, “While we are not warriors by nature the Shadowspawn have taken many of us and we are ready to fight back. So we are with you.”
Sayomara stood unmoved as be called off the next name, “Second are the Slibhfir. Are you with us?”
The Slibhfir riann ui riann a Woman named Morrigan, stood up and towered over most of the people in the room, “While the Slibhfir can defend themselves against the Shadowspawn, we know that the is the role of women to protect and we have voted yes to just you men from dieing in battle.”
Sayomara had a great many things he wanted to say but he decided against offending a woman twice his size, so he when on to the third tribe. “Lok'Miti are you with us?”
The Lok’Miti Chieftain stood up, “The Shadowspawn have taken many of our beloved Animals for this they must pay. Because of that we will fight with you.”
Elyas smiled when he hear the decision become he had found beautiful animals lying Dead or dieing in the wood since the Shadowspawn had come out of hiding. Sayomara noticed Elyas happens, but thought it was best to stay quite. “Fuairbionn are you with us?”
“We have been fighting the Shadow alone for over six mouth now with almost no luck. So we are with you on one condition, the first place we free will be the city of Endaroth.”
“If that is your price, then so be it. We have to go there before we can do anything else anyways otherwise we risk wagging war on two fronts. So, we will to the Endaroth before all others. Now I ask the Capallan are you with us?”
“We to have taken many loses since the attacks have started. Therefore, we will join to avenge the many horses that have fallen to the ShadowSpawn.
“I already know the Vote the Melios Tribe but for the Record they are with us. And the same goes for the Oakrunners and the Free Knights.” Then Sayomara took off his hat again. The room had gotten hot while quickly since the Door had been shut again and all the yelling was not helping ether, but everyone is in, and that is what mattered. “Now that we all know that we are all together I Ask the Capallan two give a few horses the messengers of each of the Tribe so that we can get word of this decision to that as quickly as possible. Also to get our army together because the Shadow no doubt be moving up there attacks in hopes of driving us apart before all our force are together. Leaders I ask you to stay behind because tomorrow we will plan the fall of the Shadow. Until then get some rest and tomorrow we disuse the fate of all Farai.
With that, Sayomara Signaled for the Doors to be opened then everyone started heading back to there Camps and rooms, Sayomara on the other hand moved his hat to the floor and sat down in this chair. After which rapped his fingers around his chin and started staring at Bara until everyone was out of the room. So that when the last person went out Sayomara finally spoke up, “So Bara, have you made your decision yet?”
Cue: Bara, or Keigos
__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.
Posted by Tygan deParte on 05-31-2002 09:40 PM:
One of the nine......
A dark man walked down the hallways of the underground world of Gania. One of the thieves in the hall went to move aside, but the man merely threw him against the wall and continued down the hallway. He opened the wooden door that led to his room and walked in, closing and locking the door behind him. The room was fairly simple; it had a bed, a dresser, and a carpet on the floor, the most significant object and a glowing orb made from some form of power that hovered between the carpet and the wall.
He knelt down on the carpet and took off his plate helmet, which was also a mask that covered half of his face, “Master…”
The orb began to swirl and soon an image of a magi in black robes appeared, “Greetings number two, I’m glad you got my mental call.” Two! I should have been one! I am the greatest of them all!
“What do you require of me master?” he said in a cold voice.
“Number one is in your territory, deal with it!”
“Shall I kill him or capture him?”
“Capture if you can, kill if he resists.”
“Yes, Master…” the orb swirled once again and the image of the mage was gone.
The man got up and put his helm back on, he walked to the door, unlocked it, and swung it open, “Prepare to die Tygan deParte.”
__________________
Can't say you'll lose if you never try.
Can't say you've won, if you happen to die.
---------------------------------
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus.
Let us rejoice then, while we are young.
---------------------------------
To die is to sleep, only you forgot to turn on your alarm.
Posted by Bara Chinder on 06-01-2002 06:56 AM:
long awaited reply
Bara turned to face the Icemaster. He looked at him, searching the old mans knotted and gnarled face. For some unknown reason the mage and his motives were a source of great curiosity for Bara. Sayomara shrugged, “Are you going to look all night or can I go and search for another leader?” he asked.
Bara shook himself and looked away. His Eyes fixed on a broken pot in the corner of the room. Sayomara sighed. “An answer at least man. So I can be at peace with my work.”
Bara looked up. “I have been thinking. We have a mighty army coming together, but we need more than might. Can we be sure of mages? We need many and more to combat the wyvern as well as the ground runners. This is one question of many. I need to know a great many things.”
Sayomara paused watching Baras face squirm under the pressure, “ I can assure you Bara that all you need to know will become apparent by the end of the council,”
Sayomara did not miss how bothered with the details Bara had become. “We need a leader, and to give the helm to one of the tribe leaders would be folly. A sure way to dissolve the compact.”
Bara hummed at this, “I will need time to make a speech. They wont be impressed if I stand up in front of them and smile. I have to let them know that I have a plan and a vision of victory. They will not follow an empty poser.” Bara paused and stepped towards the door. He turned to Sayomara again. “They must believe I am a true leader. I don’t think I have the tome to prepare such a thing.”
Sayomara smiled. Not only had Bara showed the head of a general but that of a ‘true leader’ as the man himself had put it. He was sure now, more sure than he ever had been. “Bara you need not worry. I will announce you at the end of tomorrows council. You have more support than you credit. I have no doubt that you will do more than well. Is this how you wish it?”
Bara stared at Sayomara. Suddenly he sniggered. “Have it your way Old man. I will do the best I can.” As he strolled off Bara wondered what he had gotten himself in for.
Cue: Sayomara or Keigo.
__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.
Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown
Posted by Freya Devi on 06-01-2002 12:57 PM:
The quickly paced companions ran away from the danger that was still behind them. As they entered the forest once again Freya realized something she left behind.
My staff!
Her feet came to a complete halt and she turned back to the scene of the shadow. The staff was way too important for her, and she wasn’t exactly caring for her life now that she was away. The rest running up ahead stopped, wondering what was on her mind. Noah ran back to pull her forward but she resisted. He tried to persuade her to move on.
“Come on Freya. Were still not safe yet.”
“I left something back there. I need to go get it.”
“What!? It’s too dangerous! You’ll get killed.”
“Just let me go and please don’t argue. I promise nothing will happen to me.”
“I’m coming with you.”
“No! Your job right now is to protect Adavia, and as bad as that sounds, you will do it. Please??”
“Alright…. Just please be careful.”
“Of course I will.” she said with a smile
She ran off back to the canyon looking at all her sides for danger.
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Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thime.....She was a true love of mine...
Posted by Rhea Wildfire on 06-01-2002 05:48 PM:
She walked out of her tent with the thought of her routine only in mind. Lloyd was funny but also aggravating at times when he was sarcastic. She tried to deal with it though. She walked down the usual path to the main tent. The animals starred at her as she passed with a look of wanting to be free. The usual attire for her shows was the pink jump suit that always seemed a little too tight for her. As she neared the main tent she noticed the crowd and how large it was today. It wasn’t usual for them to be here on a weekday so Rhea concluded someone must have done some extra publicity work. It surely wasn’t her. If anything she would want a small crowd to notice her now. That way she could deal with her nervousness better. Through the back entrance of the tent she walked passed the usual set up of the circus. The clowns and the trapeze swingers were after them. Then it was Rhea on the high wire and the lion tamers after her. The show was going to be small today since they were going to pact up for a new tour. This seemed like the perfect time for Rhea to leave and her parents didn’t seem like they were planning on her being in the tour anyways.
As the crowd began to get seated she looked out from the side and noticed Lloyd walk in his normal clothing. Spotting Rhea he waved as he got seated. Rhea walked to her place in line hoping for this show to be over soon. What would happen afterward was more important than her performance. The crowd was fully seated and the starting music began to blaze as the band began to play. This meant the starting of the beginning performance where they would all go out and present themselves around the ring. She would usually ride on her horse during this but there was too much delay from the tamer so she had to make something up on her own.
Everyone began to walk out to the ring with happiness in there face. Due to the excitement Rhea had planned for herself she didn’t have to pretend to smile. Her face lit up anyway. The whole circus went around the ring in a big circle like parade. Dancing and singing with the band in the corner. In the ending of the song the folks went back except for the clowns, which started to do their act.
An hour passed before it was Rhea’s turn. As the ringmaster announced her she walk to the ladder and climbed up to the high wire. Already waiting for her was two daggers by the end to the ladder. Below her was two men watching her if she fell. And above her were two ladies who were going to help her unto the wire. She finished climbing onto the ladder and placed her feet unto the starting platform. The two girls making sure she was stable held her as she placed one of her feet unto the wire. One of the ladies picked up her two daggers and placed them in to her hand. As she turned to the air and the wire she calmly got balance and place her other foot onto the wire. She was ready to perform.
__________________
And on the flying trapeze you see...
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-03-2002 10:10 AM:
Regit stepped into the temple, his staff by his side. He walked in quietly, listening intently for some indication of human life. He hears nothing and proceeds inwards. The press of pure magic force pervades his body.
"Hello? Is anyone here? I can't see you, so-"
"Dedication, I suppose. Prepare yourself."
"What?? Hey, wait, I haven't said-"
Suddenly, his senses deaden. But... his magical senses seem stronger than ever. Four huge masses of power APPEAR, VISIBLE, to his mind. They quaver and pulse, as though arguing with each other. Then, suddenly, the red one rushed straight for Regit.
He faced it resolutely. He resigned himself to the imminent death that must be awaiting him, but just before the orb struck, a small pinpoint of blue light sparked in front of it. The pinpoint showered sparks in front of it, and the red orb stopped mid-dash, then floated back into position. The deep blue sparkle flowed into Regit's left hand.
The bright blue orb is next. Tendrils of electric blue enrgy flowed from it, whipping and striking at Regit. Each blow is deflected by a new, tiny point of irridescent green light. The orb gave up and stood its ground. The green spark slipped into Regit's right palm, infusing him with yet another force.
Now, the deep blue ball approached. It grew, threatening to envelop Regit and the two new sparks of life infusing his arms, but yet another blaze of power appeared. This one, red, leaped at the blue orb, striking again and again, blindingly fast. The blue sheet seemed to moan, then recoiled and reformed back into its orb shape. The red spark slid into Regit's chest, warming him to the core.
Finally, the green orb moved towards him. It slid tendrils of green energy, very like ivyin his direction. The tendrils slowed when a last spark, bright, electric blue, appeared before it. It seemed to hesitate, then slipped into Regit's forehead without opposing the green force. The tendrils envelop Regit's body, and the strength, resilience, power of the earth flowed into his body. Suddenly the world returned in all its chaotic glory. Then the voice speaks again.
"Earth has chosen you. But so have the others... all four elements lay claim to your soul. Earth has triumphed simply by the fact that you had no resitance towards it. You seem to have your own power. Kneel, and feel about your feet."
Regit fell to his knees and reached out, and felt a warm, fuzzy body resting by his side. He picked it up and felt it, and quickly realized what it must be. It was small, and round, and fuzzy. It had two stubby legs and ears, but no other appendages.
"This is... I heard stories about this thing. Is this a Mooscue?"
A small squeak from his arms tells him he's right.
"The story said that a Mooscue has vestigial control over the elements... is this the same thing?"
The voice resonated throughout the room.
"It has been decided that you should be protected. You are of a near lost bloodline, and should it die out, a valuable traight shall go with it. You will discover the ability gradually, but until then the Mooscue shall accompany you. Treat it well, and it will be a great companion as well as guardian. Besides that, know that you are Dedicated to Earth, and you must culture this skill quickly. You must be able to defend yourself until your latent abilities shine through. When this happens..."
The voice fades, and a swift rush of wind blows about Regit. The Mooscue huddled in his arms, and snuggled closer to him. It squeaked and tried to bury itself in the folds of Regit's shirt.
"You have a responsibility to uphold, yong one. Follow the path laid before you, and you will find your destiny awaiting you..."
Regit nodded, and found himself back on the ship he had ridden in on. The captain shouted to him.
"Ahoy, young one! I thought ye'd missed yer ride! Welcome aboard! We'll be dockin' at th' mainland in a day or so... get ye to th' berth 't once!"
Regit hurried down to the bunks and laid down, the Mooscue sleeping on his chest.
"What was the.. priest?... talking about? I haven't the slightest idea where to go... but then, I never do."
He rubbed the Mooscue behind the ears, then prepares to go to sleep.
"I thought the Mooscue were puppets..."
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Sayomara on 06-03-2002 12:07 PM:
Day two Begains
Sayomara was very pleased with the first day of counsel. All the Tribes had signed on, to fight the shadow, and Bara had agreed to lead the Tribes into the Battle. Yes, it had been a very good day, but now came the hard part. So far, everything had just been planning. Now he had to organize everyone into a well-oiled fighting force. “Oh well I guess I will worry about that in the morning,” and thus he when to sleep.
When Morning Came Sayomara dressed quickly, gathered his things, and headed to the Town Hall. On his way he noticed that the town seemed to be busier then is had seen it all week. With people coming and going getting weapons other general preparations for war. However, Sayomara didn’t have time for that right now he wanted to get to the Town Hall before anyone else.
When Sayomara got there, he found Bara was already in the hall, sitting in a chair looking as if he were thinking about a great many things. “Good morning to you General Chinder. How are you doing today?”
Bara took a moment to finish he though then he replied, “I’m fine, I was just thinking of how to best you our forces. Do you have any ideas?”
“I few, but I have spent most of my time think about how to best use our limited Magical recourses. With only 56 mages ranging in age from the late 60’s to the 90’s getting them to work effectively together my decide if we can defeat the shadow. I think the best thing to do link like mages that way they can increase there over all power while at the same time not straining individual near as much. I had hoped to find more this seems to be all the Practicing mage left from the Great War and the Magi attempts to snuff out Terra magic. I know that doesn’t help you all that much, but I have Faith that you know what your are doing.” Then Sayomara patted Bara on the Back and headed to the center of the room.
It wasn’t very long before tribal leaders started showing up. Sayomara greeted each of them as they enter the room and had them all sit on one side so that they could see a large that Sayomara mounted in the middle of the room, “Welcome back friends as the leaders of your respective tribes we are today to outline our plains for war. So, lets get right down to busyness.” Then picked up a pointier stick and pointed to Endroth. “This is our first target its is the Shadow strong hold in Farai and if we are to have any change to destroying the Black tower we are going to have to retake Endroth first or risk fighting a war on two fronts. To that end I would like you all to meet the General who will be leading you into Battle.” With that, Bara came forward, and was silent. “Bara Chinder would you like to go into the details of what we will be expecting of each tribe.”
Cue: Bara
__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.
Posted by Volsung on 06-03-2002 12:15 PM:
The Temple Blades come togther
Volsung was back in Nevyel about an hour after he was talking to the Magi, but he had received word that is was everyone would be ready at dawn. So, that left Volsung and Nascent sitting at there Inn making plains for the there journey to Parvini. When out of the blue the Sword of Fire start glowing in a way that Volsung had never seen before. “Look at this Nascent do you know why it would be glowing like this. I mean I have seen its glow red anything but never this light Green before color.”
“I’ve never seen anything quite like that ether. I mean I side from Agrian Wind…” then Nascent Broke off. “If it’s Agrian Wind then we could oust those two loser and give the Magi some real leadership. Does its give you a general direction or not?”
“Yes, its seems to glow brighter when I hold it out to the south. I would guess that’s where we should start looking.” Then gabbed his pack and head out the door with Nascent on his heals.
The men moved though town slowly, Volsung figured even with very few people in the Streets after dark it would still be best to go slow and not to stab anyone. All the while, the sword kept getting brighter. “We are getting closer.” Said Volsung as they approach a small dockside inn named the ‘Magi’s Fate.’ “I think this where it is at Nascent.”
“Seems appropriate.” Then Volsung and Nascent went in the door. Then they did the Symbol for Fire started glower bright red while the rest of the blade stayed Light Green, “I’m guessing that means were close.” It was about the time that Volsung noticed a bright red light coming from one of the Corner Tables with a large group around it.
“I think that is our Blade.” Said Volsung to Nascent pointing at the red glow, Then the Two men started making there way to table at the center of the crowd where could hear a man talking.
“I don’t know why its doing this I just got it a few weeks ago.” As the people seen Volsung coming with this own glowing sword the Crowd parted and Volsung could finally see a Sword shaped like a bolt of lighting with a oak tree for a hilt glowing a deep red and with the symbol of Sky facing up, glowing white.
“Hello,” Volsung finally said making it the table and setting down the Sword of Fire in front of him. “It looks like we have something in common.
“It would appear so, Can you explain this Mr.?” said the young man looking a little more than a bit confused.
“Vesper, but you can call me Volsung. And yes, I think so. These two swords are gifts from the Creator. Given to Man to create the Dedication Temples, and since these are both Temple Blades I’m guessing this a just how they react then they are together. So if you don’t mine [I]me[i/] asking who are you and where did you get that Sword?”
“Well I prefer to be called Ryudo Wolfe and his young lady here is named Freija Lumis, we received the sword from a man named Charley (FIX) who in turn bought it from a weapons merchant in Fayre. May I ask where you got yours?”
Volsung paused for a moment, it had been a really long time since he had thought get Volund, “Its was given to me to help fight the back wolves of Geryon.”
Ryudo stopped and looked as if he was trying to put something together, then he was finished Ryudo spoke up, “Geryon, are you originally from Gran Adageros? Because that is where I was born.”
“Kind of, I was my family moved to the Islands of the Burning Crescent after the Death of my father, but I was born in Farai. In fact that’s where we are going now.”
“Really I’m heading that way to, but I’m going the this gathering of Tribes in Parivini I think my Father might be there.” Said Ryudo
“Well that where we are heading too, you’re more then welcome to come with us but we have to wait until tomorrow morning for all of our Forces to be ready.”
Cue: Ryudo its up to you if you do decide to come I will give you some more information about the Sword of Earth and Sky also if you turn the sword over the symbol for Earth will be glowing Green.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 06-03-2002 02:19 PM:
Adaiva was miserable. Her head pounded and everything hurt. She grumbled as she was led on by Noah and Sidd, while Freya head back for her precious staff.
"OK...run the facts by me again...what is wrong with me?"
Noah sighed and Sidd spun around, his nerves obviously shattered. His face was strained with stress as she breathed slightly speedier than normal. He calmed down enough to explain her situation to her once more.
"You were poisoned over a long period of time and the chemicals screwed with our mind enough to make you go insane. What else would you like again?"
Adaiva set her jaw and stood upright, despite the merciless pounding in her skull.
"Oh really. So you think I was going mad all that time?! I was not going mad! I was in my right mind, maybe it was you that went mad!"
Sidd sighed and shook his head, as if to rid her voice from it. He turned and sped up to gain more distance between him and Adaiva, who was still making no sense to him, even though Freya had given her some medicine to ease her insanity and mend whatever damage was wraught.
Meanwhile Freya was running back to their last stop to search for her staff. The air was still and thick with evil as she approached the location. Her heart pounded in her chest and she felt beads of perspiration form on her forehead. Her feet hitting the ground was the only sound that came to her ears. Finally she reached the loation and found her staff, lying still on he ground, partially hidden by tufts of grass that seemed perfectly still.
Freya reached her precious staff and picked it up, feeling the solid wood in her hand. The texture was a comfort to her as she turned to head back. Her eyes stared blankly forward as she sprinted, every instinct in her body telling her to flee.
Suddenly something snapped behind her, a simple twig. Freya spun around to face the creator of the sound that seemed to boom in the still air like a bass drum. The figure was shadowed and stooped, shimmering droplets of liquid spilling from its jaw...the red glowing eyes staring unblinking at its victim.
A shadowspawn.
CUE: Freya, noah...yeah...
__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)
"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt
Posted by Indigo Grei on 06-03-2002 04:46 PM:
It was awake, and it was not happy. Dolensirion waited patiently for it to stir, to give some faint sign that it still existed here, something more specific than the random burrow holes of spawn to heavy to take flight. He stood motionless for a day, reaching out, feeling the heat of the desert, listening for the subterranean tremors that signified movement of something below the surface.
He was shirtless, and still hot. His long blue hair clung damply to his face, and sweat glistened on his outstretched arms. He was hot, but the heat was something that would be tolerated out of necessity.
And on this day, it awoke. The tremors were small at first, a shifting really, the movement of a tired limb or uncomfortable position. But in waking, it had detected the intruder upon its desert surface, something more powerful, more daring, and more violent than the hRittir who remained in the desert, part of their ancestral land. It sensed antagonism and anger, hate and violence.
And somewhere down inside, Indigo had retreated to a cold place within his heart, and let the heat take the rest of his body, mind and soul.
The foul creature burst from the sand exactly where Dolensirion knew it would, but without the aid of the tremors, he would not be able to sufficiently anticipate its movements, at least not practically. It had altered form since last seen. Dragonfly-like wings had sprouted from its back, and nestled in between and down it’s tail were soft pustuoles covered in a dripping ichor.
Its eyes were many and none, two rows of them, one on either side of the face, protected by rows of apparently functionless bones, and the sockets were sunken in and rotting. Halfway down its serpentine neck where thicker, larger bones, something inbetween defensive measures and natural weapons. At any rate, it possessed four useless legs, tipped with serrated razor edges, as a praying mantis. It was all at once insect, reptile, and alien, but always and utterly completely repulsive.
It folded its wings back and dived from the air towards him, its fat, paunch, repugnant belly flattening against the ground as it impacted where he had stood seconds ago. Dolensirion observed his opponent warily. No doubt it could spit poison or some foul substance, but he could not discern its primary form of attack. It obviously wasn’t very mobile, and he doubted that the wings would keep it aloft for more than a scant few seconds.
His unasked question was answered when it became to give the illusion of movement. It stared at him with sunken eyes, and shuddered faintly, but did not move. There was a ripple down its back, and the pustuoles quivered violently.
And then they burst, sending vile pupae and larvae splashing to the ground in a shower of vile ichor. The shadowspawn were more readily equipped for attack, their decidedly mutant forms covered with bony protrustions and sharpened claws. Indigo may have wondered how such things were birthed, but Dolensirion knew that this was no time to hypothesize on his enemy’s birthing particulars, and set about the task of planning his assault. The spawn crowded around, and behind them, more egg-blisters were appearing and bursting. Dolensirion moved his hands forward in a fluid motion, flames coming easily and smoothly, like a called lover. The fire cut and burned alike, and Dolensirion brandished the blazing sword as a talisman as well as a weapon. He did not dismay or dwell on the fact when he realized that the spawn, after being so exposed to the heat, or perhaps as a natural function of battle or evolution, were either growing carapaces, or hardening their bodies. Instead, he continued to cut them down, and the power came unrestrained.
They were growing in number faster than Dolensirion could cut them to shreds, and his resolve was briefly broken when he realized that the twisted things were not born of substance and blood, but of magic and shadow. As long as the mother was alive, they would reproduce, and it was a logical thought that they may continue after, even.
Dolensirion leapt back from the fray and realized the scale of his peril. The power of the avatars was with him, perhaps, but wounds were opening where he had not seen them taken, and worse, they appeared infected.
The power of avatars could not rest in an empty vessel. If Indigo’s body were to perish, then all would be lost. And yet, being at once with it and detached, Dolensirion could do nothing but fight on.
And hope.
__________________
Is this a curse, or destiny? This fire could consume us all...
Posted by Palin Freeborn on 06-03-2002 08:31 PM:
A new adventure begins.......
Palin led Tygan and Carla back to the castle, his nerves grating about the sudden departure of Cybele.
Was it because of what happened in Ioty? Did she leave because of Riena? Or was there something more pressing?
Palin's thoughts ended as he approached the castle and waved the guards away from Tygan and Carla. He led them upstairs (after much gawking by Carla, who accidentally tripped over her own feet from looking around, nearly breaking a very expensive vase), and settled them into an adjoining room, so that they could reach Palin easily and quickly. After conversing with the castle guard about the "absurd prospect that such characters would even be allowed to look at the castle, so much as sleep inside it", Palin took Tygan to go meet Til'sylvanna.
However, Palin was greeted by a locked door, with an oddly foreboding magically-sealed lock. Palin grunted in annoyance as he realized that he'd be unable to pick the lock. He placed his tools back in his belt and stood, walking over to Tygan.
"No go. She's locked up tight in there and I don't think she plans on coming out soon."
"What's the matter with her? You said she's been in there for over a week." Tygan replied.
"Don't know. Last I gathered from the stewards, she's been "dream-roaming", with Saeth the only one who ever walked in or out of the room. She mentioned something the last time I saw her about a sword in a temple in the Evisis Woods. I think it's about time I went to investigate myself."
"What of the elves? This mystery temple must be in the deep forest, for I've never seen it. And you know where the elves must live as well......"
"I know, but if she's been in there for so long, then something serious must be happening. I think it's best if I go check it out."
"Then I'll go with you." Palin smiled.
"Thanks. I appreciate the support." They turned to walk back to the room.
"Oh, by the way, Palin.......... how's that scar on your ass healing up?" Palin tackled him.
In the background, amongst the grunts of their wrestling, came two little voices, cheering the stupid daikinis on.
************************************************
After the days was over and the sun was rising to greet the new, Palin awoke and rallied his small party, including a few Ganian soldiers with permission from the King.
"Your highness, we wish to persue a talisman, hidden in the depths of the Evisis Woods. We have a small adventuring party, but wee may require the aid of a few of your soldiers. Could you assist us?" The King nodded.
"Hmm....... I'm all shook up.....," The King replied. "This predicament with my daughter has left me with few forces..... but I shall grant your request." The man swallowed a sandwich almost whole. Palin winced slightly in disgust, thinking that the King would more than likely die on the throne someday.
With a group of fifteen guards, equipped with everything from swords to bows to spears, they set out from Gania, their course set for the Evisis Woods.
***********************************************
They reached the woods by late evening. The light of day was dimming and the soldiers had yet to go through their nightly exercises. Palin elected that the soldiers remain in their gear and not light a fire, despite the cool air. Tygan agreed to take first watch, with Carla accompanying him.
Palin slept most of the night, awaking before dawn to finish the last of the watches. Riena awoke to sit up with him and the huddled close together and held each other as the sun rose through the tree-line, splaying a wonderful spectrum of colors across the horizon. Riena kissed him and stood, shaking the soldiers awake. Within minutes, the camp was packed away and they continued straight west into the forest, everyone but the soldiers slightly aware of elven eyes watching them through the forest.
***********************************************
After five days of travel, mostly comprised of the party having to double back just to find a safe path, they arrived at a grove surrounded by huge trees, with trunks as large as carts. Palin's jaw dropped at the sight before him. A huge, eroded grey temple stood like a monolith before the party, dwarfing even the trees surrounding it. The group stepped into the clearing, but regretted their decision immediately.
Ten Fiero wolves leapt into the space before them, blocking the path to the temple. Palin drew his sword and stepped back, his left arm guarding Riena. Riena, though, drew her own rapier and stepped foward to meet Palin's stance. Tygan stepped up as well, his dual blades held threateningly at the creatures. They growled in response, and Palin and Tygan roared in reply. They began to charge, until arrows flew from behind them and planted themselves in the ground.
Elves were behind them. They were trapped, in the midst of a battle where they did not stand a chance.
More Fiero charged into the grove. Arrows sang in the air above them. The group huddled close and waited, hoping for something to aid them in their escape.
Cue: Tygan. Write out the fight, but leave a at least half of the soldiers alive. We'll need them when we get inside.
__________________
Being a hero is not some title to obtain or a term to be used lightly. It is a matter of essence and is reserved for those with only heart and soul guiding their actions.
Posted by Damion on 06-04-2002 01:26 PM:
Damion searched through the debris of the decimated village of Largoth, looking for any items that might be of value. His hands bled as they clambered over the sharp rocks and stones, pushing them aside to find minor gems that were broken or shattered. There seemed to be nothing there in the ruins, and his time here was running short, as his pursuers continued to track him down. He needed money, enough money to buy a passport for a ship and get the hell off of this island of his. At the moment, he seemed to have gathered enough items to but a ticket for a cargo ship, sleeping with the merchandise in the lower decks.
Damn this island, damn the king, damn everyone!
He stood, and to his amazement he saw a ship, not a cargo ship, but some sort of passenger ship.
Well, looks like my luck has just changed for the better. About time something good happened to me.
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-05-2002 04:17 PM:
Draken walked slowly along a narrow path leading up to the totally destroyed village of Largoth. Suddenly, he stopped. In the distance, a few hundred yards or so away, he noticed something move amongst the debris. Slowly but surely, Draken edged his way along a withstanding wall and crept silently in the shadows.
It wasn't long until he was only a mere yard away from this mysterious person when a huge flash fillled his head and a familiar voice spoke.
Take Heed, Kizdean, this one may be of some use in the future
As the light began to shimmer and fade, he nodded to himself as if to comply to the voice.
He then looked up, as if suddenly awoken from a dream and noticed a huge ship, cascading along the surf like a whale. The ship flew sprays of water into the air creating a minature rainbow.
With the swift movement of a cheetah, he brushes past this person in the wink of an eye and remains hidden. Quiet. And in wait.
"Won't be long now," He whispered under his breath...
quote:
We have a blind date with destiny...And it looks like she ordered the lobster...
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-06-2002 08:18 AM:
((OOC- Hey, Kizdean! You're not approved yet! Read the Character rules from the main page, then go get yourself approved. We're going to have to ignore your RPing until then... -OOC))
Regit lay on his bunk, listening to the surf quietly. Suddenly, Mooscue, who had been snoozing on his chest, popped awake and squealed loudly.
Regit sat up immediately, nearly dumping the pink ball of fluff of his lap. He instinctively turned his head about, and then, he SAW.
A pillar of greenish light stood, spilling from the dull green-brown glow that Regit knew immediately was an island, a haven of order in the chaotic sea. The pillar, however, seemed... broken... or diluted.
"Hunh...? I think that's a person... but I've never seen a human give off so much magical energy..."
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Damion on 06-06-2002 09:32 AM:
Damion hid in the nearby forest, awaiting the large ship to dock at the shoreline. He drew a quick breath as the ship neared, wondering if he would be able to sneak onboard. There seemed to be a lot of people on the deck, but there might have been even more under the deck. He hid, and waited.....
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Bara Chinder on 06-06-2002 05:51 PM:
Baras speech
Bara stood infront of the assembly. He was no speaker, he was never comfortable talking to groups. He fumbled over the first few words in his head. The assembly sat waiting, Bara thought of bolting but drew confidence in the fact that he had nothing to lose. Of course he was wrong, but he had not realised all that he had done so far.
“At the moment,” he began, “the shadow has extended its influence right across the span of Farai. Our homelands and hunting runs are infested with the spawn of the dark queen and must be stopped. We have all come to Parvini knowing this.”
Bara paused before resuming his speech. “Some of you have come in faith to Sayomara, some have come to see if he indeed still exists.” Sayomara sniggered at this. “But all of you have come because of a will to fight. I have been selected to lead our mighty war band. I don’t know why I have any more claim to the leadership of the war band than any other, except that I stand before you all a nomad of no tribe. A long time ago my father cast me aside, but that is a cause of no weakness to me.” Again Bara paused to allow the effect sink in.
“He marked me with the croisbui, this is true, but I stand before you all with clear heart and pride enough to forget. I have cut the very mark from my face and I am redeemed by the respect of the many chieftains. So I shall lead the army myself as is Master Sayomaras bidding.” Bara paused and surveyed the crowd. One or two Laimh Dearag chiefs looked discontent but did not voice any disrespect.
Bara continued. “We will centre our attack with the combined forces of the Laimh Dearag, and sleebhfir. The flanks will be held by the fuairbionn and lok’miti. The melios have generously offered to build war wagons, and while I know little of what these are I am sure that they will lend strength to the central force. In I have planned to use the horse mounted Sleebhfir and the Stoneknuckles as a floating contingent, to bolster weak areas and mop up the remnants of the spawn. The Cappallan will fight from horseback as they do best. The role of mages and the various other members of our compact is yet to be decided. Any suggestions or criticisms to this strategy should be brought to me and Sayomara soon.”
A loose and watery idea of a formation. Not ideal, but would it do? This would remain to be seen. At the moment the biggest obstacle was thee role of the other groups who were somewhat of a wildcard to Bara at the time. Finally he felt compelled to mention the forthcoming siege on Endaroth.
“When we are finished here, you must all go back and ready forces as quickly as possible to lay siege on Endaroth. I am still considering this but I expect we come upon the city from the north and west with the fuairbionn attacking from their homeland to the south. I will discuss our options with all of you over the next few days.”
Bara took a deep breath. “Lastly, I must say this. I need the absolute co-operation of every one of you, or we will fail and fall into a time more dark and evil than anyone of us can imagine. If we fail now we will fail all of Farai, we fail our children and our ancestors alike. We must fight as one, or we will perish as many. Thank you.”
Bara drew back. A few moments passed. He glanced at Sayomara whose brow was slowly starting to furrow with concern.
Suddenly a loud screeching whoop came up as the Morrigan rose to her feet and beat a massive axe head against a shield. Slowly but surly the whole hall joined in her salute. Bara could not help but smile, the relief was over whelming.
Bara approached Keigo a while after the others started to file out.
“I have been thinking a lot these days. If these men and women all follow me to battle well and good, but if I fall, they will all follow none but their own, that would bring nothing but chaos. You put me in mind last night; I want to form a retinue. Ascher and Cainas have already agreed, the Morrigan may want to ride with me as well. But that is a small retinue. If you still want to there is place at my side for one of no tribe.”
Keigo nodded but before he could respond the huge form of the Morrigan threw a huge arm around Baras shoulders. All Bara could get out was a hurried “LATER!”
Cue: Sayomara and Keigo.
__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.
Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown
Posted by Emperor Aramus VanVehementi on 06-06-2002 11:19 PM:
All had gone flawlessly well. Project Valkyrie was now gaining momentum after the prototype airship’s successful maiden flight. The Emperor himself sat in awe as the small vessel sped noisily overhead, its propeller blades churning the warm, humid Nylian air. Nearly a month had come to pass since the Valkyrie project was approved for the construction of one massive Dreadnaught class aerial battleship, and several additional Destroyer class vessels. The Empire would have an incomparably advanced fleet of weaponry within a years time. VanVehementi had made a solemn oath unto himself: his visions would be brought to fruition.
The air was warm. It carried with it a great presence forcing even the strong to labor in breathing it. Its humid rancor had, for a week’s duration, plagued the Nylian provinces. A drought was inevitable. Aramus himself issued a decree that man hours were to be halved until the conditions alleviated. Only his greatest secret, the Valkyrie black ops would persevere in the blistering heat. The Emperor had always been a child of the winter season. His distaste for these heated months gave him wisdom in understanding its properties as a social catalyst. With hot humid days upon his people, he well knew tempers would rise just as swiftly as the citizenry’s thirst. Revolt was something he was avoiding at all costs. He was so close to completing the restorations to Fayre. He would not allow war to break itself free within his own territory by any means. For days he had been hard at study within his personal chambers, courtesy of the VanVehementi estates in Nyliam proper. Once more he had entombed himself within corridors of parchment and bindings, scouring reports of taxation, police activities, goods from the plains farmers, and irrigation efficiency. His paperwork, however, was soon to be put on hold.
A hearty knock arose at his doors. With only a meager “Yes?” the doors swung slowly open to reveal Gregorynn, who calmly strode in to greet his friend. Aramus and his dearest of servants had achieved recently a strengthening of their union after the Emporer made good on an old promise. Aramus’ team of mages had learned and matured much in their studies. They were now quite competent magic users on their one singular terms, capable of achieving significant feats without the use of the linking technique. So much so that it took only one of the Empire’s star pupils to regenerate the long since severed hand of Gregorynn, restoring him to full functionality.
“Greetings Aramus,” Gregorynn extended his new hand to grasp that of the Emperor’s thankfully, “A party of Diplomats from the Ganian government have made their way in hopes of gaining your audience. Shall I send them in or delay them?”
“Gania? What business could they possibly have with me?” Aramus stood puzzled for a short while. He had never been on bad terms with the Royal Family of Gania during his time as a representative in the Nylinus Council, yet he was far from “cozy” with them by the same regard. Though he had nothing to fear from so small a country, he did wish to avoid verbal conflict should their visit pertain to a disapproval of his military conquests. Alas, curiosity soon engulfed him as he ordered Gregorynn to seat them in the Dining Hall. Aramus mused to himself as he prepared to greet his visitors. As long as they are in my Empire, I might as well show them a good time.
CUE: Scarlet, I’m not quite sure how you wanted the Ganian’s to sound so I’ll either leave this one up to you or we can work it out later. Just wanted to get my posting roots wet again before I fell too far out of it all.
__________________
Unlike my fool of a father, I don't just talk of ambition... I realize it.
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-07-2002 03:56 PM:
Regit moved as quickly as he could to the deck, at least as fast as a blind man can at sea. Mooscue trailed behind peering every so often in the general direction of the island.
"Hey, captain!! Can we put ashore here? I'm sure we could use some fresh water, right?"
The captain glanced at Regit, then turned the wheel slightly, aiming at the abandoned dock by Largoth's edge.
Regit lurched a bit when the ship stops, then moved to the newly extended gangplank. He walked down carefully, then proceeded on towards town. Mooscue squealed and ran after Regit, and bumped into the back of Regit's heels. The vision returned.
The pillar of diluted green energy still rose from the ruins of the town. Regit moved towards it and called out.
"Hello? Who's out there? I know you're there, might as well show yourself... hello??"
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-07-2002 05:07 PM:
OOC: As Sekirah and Zander
IC: As he had agreed, Sekirah brought the Merchant safely to the way gate and was given enough money to pay his way to Fayre. That was an understatement; Sekirah was compensated much more than he had hoped. He knew, though, that if he planned on doing any more traveling, or to search for Cedric and Ewen in Gania, he would have to make a stop in Helilal to pick up more funds and belongings from his home.
Amanda still insisted on accompanying him, especially since she now knew he was what some would call a shape shifter. The Ganians didn’t like shape shifters much, mostly because they knew so little about people that harnessed the ability to use body magic. In Gran Adageros, most people practiced Ki, not Terra, magic.
Curiously enough, Amanda didn’t seem to respond to him the way most on the new continent would. She was highly interested and enthusiastic about Sekirah’s ability. She rambled on about it for hours on end.
“Can shape shifters take on any shape they want?” Amanda asked when they stepped into Fayre on the other side of the way gate to find that, unlike Nyliam, the city was experiencing a slow but steady drizzle. The rain was a rare and welcomed sight.
“Please, don’t call me a shape shifter,” Sekirah pleaded. “I prefer the title, ‘Body Mage’ and yes, I can take on the shape of anything that I’ve seen or imagined.”
“How interesting…” she trailed off as they made their way through the town streets. She continued to jabber about how “fun” it would be to change shape into anything she wanted, but Sekirah wasn’t listening; something had caught his eye.
Zander and Tiffarah, explored the wet streets of Fayre for the first time. The earlier attack of the shadow spawn was apparent by the bits of rubble that still littered the streets, but the rebuilding process was well under way.
Tiffarah huddled close to him as they walked and he curled his arm around her delicate body. Life had never seemed so perfect to Zander. He was about to take Tiffarah home to meet his parents; the Creator had truly blessed him with this girl. On top of that, the two of them had grown much closer as they traveled from Nyliam. Relying only on each other can really bond two people.
They had their first real squabble, (over whether or not they could afford to spend another night in Farlarn and still have enough money to last till Xellos) and settled it fairly peacefully with apologies on both sides. The more difficult squabbles were with money-hungry innkeepers and stray shadow spawn. Zander decided that he much preferred dealing with the shadow spawn than the innkeepers.
A gasp from Tiffarah roused Zander from his thoughtful trance and he looked up to see a tall Lunari with a red haired girl walking toward them. It didn’t take long for Zander to figure out what made the Silver haired man look so familiar.
“Sekirah?” Tiffarah asked as the man approached. He carried his spear with him, but Zander relaxed a bit when he felt no ill intentions from either of the two that approached.
“Indeed, Tiffarah,” Sekirah replied, and extended his hand out to Zander. “Pleased to meet you again, Holy Knight.” He was, bore than pleased. He had wanted to meet this knight again for quite some time. ‘Too bad it’s under these circumstances,’ he thought.
“And you, Sekirah,” Zander grasped his hand and gave it a firm but friendly shake. “You’ve come a long way from where we last met.”
“In more ways than one,” Sekirah smiled. “I’ve had a change of profession.”
“That’s good to hear. Are you on your way through the gate as well?” Tiffarah asked.
“No, Amanda and I just came from Gania. We’re on our way to Helilal before going back to look for a couple of my friends.”
“Well, I suppose we will be parting already then. Maybe we’ll meet sometime in Gania,” Zander said. “May the Creator guide you in your search.”
“Thank you, and farewell.”
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-08-2002 07:45 AM:
Draken slowly looked up at this person in the town. He then moved his eyes towards the docked ship. He began to doubt it's sea worthiness.
Without warning, a small flicker of dark energy pulsated around him for only a split second. Without another moment of thought, he began to move towards the seaman standing in the town centre.
"I know that your eyes betray you...," Draken said, in a cold and calculated manner.
He then began to move towards him, his hair and coat blowing wildly in the sea breeze...
Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 06-09-2002 01:53 PM:
She stood on the city streets looking around at her surroundings. It had been seconds since she was over at home. This seemed to amaze her a little and she pulled out her journal and wrote it down. The thought of her next case suddenly appeared to her and although her last was a tragic one she still wanted to make her known. Technically she still wasn’t a professional investigator so she had a lot of work to do. She shuffled her feet across the ground as townspeople quickly passed her by. Bumping her on each shoulder though she didn’t seem to notice.
The town seemed pretty big although she didn’t know exactly where she was. To her it didn’t matter, any place would be a great place for a new start. From now on she didn’t need anyone. She was on her own. Looking up towards the sky and noticed the balcony from a room above her. It seemed to draw her with a sense of comfort. She knew this was the place to stay. She walked into the inn and looked around to all the nobles. To avoid any conflict with them she simply threw her bag of money on the bar and kept walking. She was gone before the bartender could even say a word. She quickly walked up the stairs to the room. Her body stopped at the door and her hand moved slowly to it.
Pushing the door she entered the room slowly to see if anyone was in it already. The room was empty and she quickly walked to the bed and fell upon it to have a soundly sleep.
************
The forest was thick with large trees. Her surroundings seem dark and cloudy with fog. She looked around her to figure out where she was but nothing seemed familiar. She began to run through the forest searching for a way out. Her eyes stopped at a figure not too far away from her. She slowly approached the human and it became clearer that it was a man. He looked as if he has some government stature with his uniform. He stood in front of a rock with something stuck in it. She walked a little ways to her right to make clear of what she was seeing. It was a sword. It seemed to glow every time the man placed his hand near it. This seemed like too much of an interesting thing to pass up so she slowly moved closer to get a better view. She tried to speak to him but no voice came from her mouth.
Suddenly the man placed both hands on the sword. A great flash of light surrounded him and went far out to all ends of the area. She turned to run away from the light but it hit her with a great force pushing her forward into a tree.
********
She awoke with a race in her heart. Checking her body for any burses, she got up off her bed and then walked to the balcony. She stood next to the concrete side and placed her hands on the rail. She starred at the stars thinking about what the small dream meant.
Down below her, across the street a man stood from an inn door watching the reaction from afar. His smirk grew with the thought of what would happen to her in the future. It was set now all her had to do was what he did best.
__________________
Posted by Sayomara on 06-09-2002 02:13 PM:
getting ready to move
Sayomara woke up still felling a bit of a high from the past two days counsel and everything going right. “Yes everything is going to plan now let see…” Knock, Knock “I wonder who that is at this time?” Said Sayomara while he was quickly dressing after which he went to see who was at the door. “Who is it?”
“Its me Aeveris. I was wondering if we could talk for a few moments I have a few concerns about the counsel and my clans role in the up coming War.”
Sayomara cocked his head to the side, “And what would that be?”
“When we were at the counsel yesterday, and Master Chinder was talking about the tribes he didn’t give us anything to do, and the same goes for the Free Knights Pharys looked kind of upset when I seen him.” Said Aeveris
“Well there is very good reason for that, first since you and many of your tribe have magic they are considered part of my Magical forces and since our numbers in this area are so few I will take all I can get. Also your clan will be needed protect the Mages since most will be to busy protecting our main forces to protect themselves. This is also, where the Free knight come in. They too will be needed to protect the mages. Does that help?”
“Yes, quite a bit, but what do you want me to do?” Asked Aeveris still look a bit confused.
“Well you’re a Summoner, can you summon something helpful.”
Aeveris stood in place for a moment looking as if he was thinking, “Ok, I think I have something but its going to take a while, I’ll tell you more when I know more.”
“Ok?” Then Aeveris turned around a headed out of the hut. After he was gone Sayomara heard himself saying, “I don’t think I will ever understand Sprit mages, oh well I guess it about time I find Bara and see how war preparation are coming.”
------------****
Sayomara made the rounds though most of the Tribal camps finding out what the status of the tribes how many warriors they had in Parvini, how many were still coming, and when they were expected? All and all there were about 25,000 warriors in Parvini at the moment with anther 50,000 on the way. This so many coming into coming together concerned Sayomara, and he quickly gather together two caravans sent them out. One to Rysend and the other to Ferain to have any and all supplies brought back to Parvini on the Double.
Right after sending out the caravans Sayomara ran into Bara, “Hello General Chinder, How things going?”
“Very well, things are starting to come together. But most of the tribes are still waiting for the bulk of their forces to get here, but I’m sure we will be able to move on Endroth very soon.” Said Bara looking kind of tried.
“Good to hear, the Melios are starting to come back with information about the enemy forces in Endroth. You know this is going to be one hell of a fight don’t you?”
Bara nodded his head, “I knew what I was getting into that’s why I was trying for so long to gather all the tribes together.” A bit of smile came to Bara’s face, “In truth I was working so hard to get this far I didn’t ready think about want would come after all the Tribes were together, but everything is almost ready then we will be ready to free our country from the Shadow.”
“Quite right, so whenever you think everything is ready tell the forces to march out you have my full support.” Then Sayomara paused as if was going say something else but he stopped, “Well I won’t hold you here any longer we both have a lot to I will see you tomorrow.” With that, both men nodded and went back to preparing everyone else for the Great battle which was only a few days away.
__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.
Posted by Damion on 06-09-2002 05:20 PM:
Damion looked at the two strangers standing in the middle of the ruined town. One seemed to be carrying a long staff followed by a small little puff-ball like thing, while the other surrounded himself with a small, black energy field. He could barely hear them, and it seemed that neither of them noticed him.
Now's my chance...
Damion sprinted towards the docked ship, making sure to hide himself every now and then behind broken walls and looses doors. He didn't want to be seen by either the two strangers nor the ship's crew. Whether they were friend or foe, he didn't care. All he wanted was to get off this damned island. He approached the ship quietly, looking around for any signs of movement near him, ready to leap into the water to hide. He peered over a rotted barrel, searching for the crew of the ship.
Let's see....one, two, three....four...five six, seven....seven on the deck. Well, this is going to be quite a challenge...
((Que: Regit or Draken))
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Freija Lumis on 06-09-2002 05:31 PM:
Bitter thoughts
Upon Freija and Tyr's return to Nevyel, darkness began to fall on the small town. Life slowed to a leisurly pace as the townsfolk wandered into their homes.
"Shall we go to an inn?" Freija stated this rather than inquired.
Tyr said nothing but simply shrugged, altering her straight course down the main road to a simple inn. Organ music blared from within, the slurred voices of the drunken men mixing with the song. Tyr pulled out a few silver and tossed it to the bartender, who traded the money for a couple of room keys. Freija muttered her thanks but Tyr said nothing, following the key number to her room. She slid in and shut the door behind her, Freija doing the same.
The room was cozy, with a small bed and a chest of drawers in the middle of the room. Despite it being sparsly furnished, not to mention decorated, it was suitable for a good night's sleep. Freija sighed wearily as she fell back on the bed, positioning herself on the bed and under the linens. Near instantly she slipped into sleep.
-------
Freija was on the deck of Tyr's boat. The crew and cargo were not present and the planks were clean and new, as if they were recently placed. The ship was surrounded by a thick fog with no sign of source of illumination that was cast upon the ship, causing the mist to twinkle. Freija turned to her left to see the hazy forms of Ryudo and Tyr cuddling. She suddenly felt a great rage build inside of her, little voices echoing in her ears. Oddly enough she saw Tyr's rapier abandoned on the slick deck, its blade glistening in the mysterious light. Urged on by the voices and her rage she lept forward and wielded the blade and plunged its metal into the heart of Tyr, her face staring up at her with shock, anger, pain and love. The mixed emotions faded as her skin went pale, blood trickling from her mouth. Ryudo just stared blankly at the dead Tyr, and took Freija into his arms...
-------
Freija sat up, her clothes and sheets clinging to her sweat-drenched body. Gasping she recalled the horrible scenes that had unfolded before her.
What? I killed Tyr? Why? And why did Ryudo scoff at the corpse and take me? What is going on?
Freija shook the thoughts the nagged at her mind. She couldn't think that she wanted Tyr dead...not for Ryudo! He was a friend, and she liked to see him happy...but what was the point of the dream? Rubbing her temples she thought, but couldn't forget what she was thinking, that she wanted Ryudo for herself. She couldn't! She didn't want to! Crying softly she struggled with her mind.
CUE: Ryudo, Tyr...hehe the plot thickens
__________________
~Today is 1 out of 365. In a year, you won't
remember what you did today so just smile
and get on with life~
~An excuse is worse and more terrible than
a lie; for an excuse is a lie guarded~
-Alexander Pope
Posted by Ryudo Wolfe on 06-09-2002 07:23 PM:
Ryudo looked down to his blade, the sky symbol glowing white, he flipped it over and the earth symbol was glowing green. He looked up to Volsung and Nascent, “Ever since my dedication, perhaps even before, I’ve felt there was something greater for me to accomplish, that feeling was only increased when I found this blade……..I will travel with you.”
Volsung nodded, then stretched, “Let us talk more in the morning.”
“Very well,” the two stood up and shook hands, both sheathing their glowing blades. Volsung and Nascent walked off, though Nascent hadn’t talked during the whole meeting. Ryudo and Freija went off to meet up with Tyr and Morgan, then all of them found rooms for the night.
****************************************
The next morning Ryudo and Tyr met up with Volsung and Nascent, “So, where’s this army?”
Volsung pointed out into the ocean, “There…” Ryudo and Tyr looked to see a large amount of figures flying towards the dock, as well there was a ship with even more people coming, all appeared to be of the Magi.
“Who are they?” asked Tyr.
Nascent spoke up for the first time since having met Ryudo, “They are the Tedar of the magi, they used to seek out terra powers, now they protect.”
Ryudo nodded, “So a Magi army is joining the tribes?”
Nascent looked to Ryudo then to Ryudo’s sword, “Yes….we feel this danger is great enough that the magi must be involved.” The group parted up, Volsung and Nascent going to talk to the leaders of this group of magi, Ryudo and Tyr walked around side-by-side looking at the magi whom were landing. One man came up which Ryudo knew.
“Ryudo!” Jaisron called as he walked over to them, “It is good to see you again, are you here to help the cause?”
“Yes, it appears so. Jaisron, meet Tyr,” Jaisron looked to Tyr and bowed slightly.
“Tis a pleasure m’lady….but..” he looked to Ryudo.
“Yes, it is the same girl,” Ryudo smirked, “Who would have guessed?”
Tyr gave Ryudo a playful punch, “You been telling your friends about me?”
Jaisron grinned, “I promise M’lady, it was all bad stuff,” they laughed, then Jaisron’s eyes widened, “Your swor……” but he was interrupted.
“You got a new sword I see,” another familiar face smiled, it was Canlor, the other magi Ryudo had met.
“Yes, but why do you all seem so interested in it? I mean I know it is a temple blade, but Volsung has one just like it,” Ryudo noticed a few other magi looking his way, the blade was still glowing somewhat since he and Volsung were close.
The two magi looked at eachother then Ryudo, “Well….perhaps Nascent can explain, our advice is that you just keep it close, it is a powerful weapon in the hand of a righteous soul.”
A few more hours passed before the large group of magi were ready to go.
*************************************
Ryudo looked into Tyr’s eyes, “Is this where we part?”
Tyr glanced back at her ship, then looked to Ryudo, “Do you think I’d give you up to go back and hang out with that bunch of idiots? I’m definitely sticking with you,” she leaned in and kissed him.
He smiled somewhat, “Tyr, we may be going into a war, anything could happen…..”
“I’m willing to take that risk and I would rather be there when it happens then off in the sea, clueless of the events.”
Ryudo nodded then put his hands up to his neck and pulled his medallion out from under his armor, it was a silver tree with a green gem embedded in the center, he looked at it for a moment, then looked to her, “This is in a sense, a part of me……it is my family emblem,” his put his hands around her neck and placed the medallion on her, “No matter what happens I will be with you.”
They leaned in and kissed again.
****************************************
Freija and Morgan sat on a bench by the docks, “So, your going back to the sea eh?”
Morgan nodded, “Ya I guess.”
“You know, you could join us, I mean you’re not exactly like the rest of those pirates.”
Morgan looked off into the sky, deep in thought.
***************************************
That afternoon they all set out, Ryudo and Tyr traveled by Volsung and Nascent, most of the magi were walking, it would allow them to save their power for the battle.
“You seemed surprised to see the magi flying,” said Volsung.
“Well I had no clue that could be done, but only being trained in earth magic, I guess I never had an experience with it anyways.”
“I could teach you.”
Ryudo nodded then looked to Nascent, “Nascent….some of the magi said I should ask you about my sword, why is it you are all so interested in it?”
CUE: Volsung your ready to go. Morgan I left it open for you so the path is yours to choose. Tyr....your comin with me lol.
__________________
The oceans, the lakes, the seas. The waves, the surf, the dolphins. The sword, the armor, the battle. The strength, the earth, the energy. I am a sailor, I am a warrior, I am a mage.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-10-2002 03:11 PM:
Draken slowly looked at the sailor's face and looked into his pale eyes.
Draken then began to raise his right hand into the air. Dark energy sprung from his palm like electricity running through water.
The energy rose into the air and began to let out small flickers of light.
Suddenly, Draken jerked his head round at a rotten barrel near the ship. The dark energy above his palm seemed to do the same.
In the blink of an eye, the energy raced towards the barrel which exploded into millions of tiny splinters.
Walking past the blind sailor, Draken proceeded over to the remains of the barrel to see if he hit his target...
((Que: Regit or Damion. Try to set up a battle if you can))
Posted by Amethyst on 06-10-2002 05:31 PM:
Amethyst felt her stomach twist painfully into a knot, making noises that caused her heart to sink. Her feet were sore from her travels and blisters bit at her ankles. The sun floated in its lonely course through the sky before finally resting below the horizon. The moon was barely a sliver, casting little light. Finally Amethyst could travel no further. No one wandered through the dimly lit streets except prostitutes and sluggish drunk men.
Amethyst bit her lower lip and sighed heavily, the thought of sleep overriding the intense feeling of disgust at her current position. She meandered through the silent streets and found a stable, the warmth from horses capable of sustaining her through the cold Aeterna nights.
Amethyst fell upon a bed of hay beside a bay gelding, who opened an eye to look at the stranger in his own bed. He snorted and shuffled his feet, only to stop and fall back into his slumber. The scent was musty but warm.
Merciful sleep did not come to Amethyst, who slept fitfully, haunted by everything that had happened, the scornful faces of her masters twisted grotesquelly and Kalay's kind face smiling down on her.
By morning, Amethyst was found asleep on the hay by a stable keeper, coming to clean the stall. He was astonished by the sight of a lowly waif curled up on hay. He turned and motioned for his friend to come look at this. They looked down on her and grinned.
"What shall we do 'wit her? I mean, Masta' won't approve of this waif here by his precious Layan." Said the first to arrive. His dirty face twisted into a sneer, his voice mocking his master's love for his gelding. His pal laughed in a high-pitched voice and leaned against the stall walls.
"She's mighty purty'..." Said the second, his voice trailing off as a hint to his friend, who turned to look at him, his eyes full of challenge and mischief. They look a few timid steps towards Amethyst, who slept deeply. They reached down and hauled her to her feet, clapping a dirty hand over her mouth.
"AAAHMMMMMFTH"
"Shut up waif!" Said the first, who held his hand firmly against her mouth. His friend grabbed a hold of her flailing legs as she busied herself clawing at her captor's hands. The boys underestimated the frantic girl who kicked, wiggled, clawed and bit her way out of their grasp. The first boy yelled out in pain as she clamped her teeth firmly on his hardened palm, drawing blood from the wound. His yelp caught his friend off guard as she kicked up, her toe landing under his jaw. He winced and let go of her legs to hold his injury, giving rise to a worthy escape for Amethyst, who bolted out of the stables and tore down the streets, tears streaming down her cheek, dirty blood dripping from her mouth.
Amethyst took odd stares and angry screams as she passed from the peasent district to the higher end, where the nobles walked, not expecting a dirty violet-haired girl to rush down the streets, blood dripping from her mouth.
Finally Amethyst was caught by an official, who turned her around to face him.
"You foolish girl! How can you be so...so...STUPID? What are you doing up here? Your kind belong in the lower part of Fayre! Be off with you!"
Amethyst stared up at the bearded man, his brown eyes staring down at her, his face reddening from his sudden exertion. He released his vice-like grip on her shoulders and stood up straight, returning to a dignified matter. He snorted and took up his cane, obviously restraining from a desire to smack Amethyst with it. He passed her swiftly and left her to stand there, on the verge of sobbing.
"Child! Child come here! At once!" cried a voice from an unknown source. She turned to face an old woman, wearing a deep purple velvet gown. Her wrinkled face was void of expression as she stood waiting for Amethyst to approach.
When Amethyst reached the woman she ushered her into her home and shut the door behind her. She bustled past her as if expecting the girl to follow. She turned around when she realized that she was not. Amethyst was too busy examining the beautiful mansion, the elevated ceilings decorated with gold leaf and fine carvings.
"Child!" Amethyst snapped out of her revarie and rushed after the seething woman, her patience frayed.
"You seem to be lost." Amethyst nodded but caught herself, realizing the woman could not see her do this.
"Y-yes ma'am"
"Well for that you'll be put to work! I do not want to see you wandering about this district without a sign of empoyment. No snap to it and go into this door."
Amethyst nodded and walked into the doorway, from which the woman unbarred the entrance. Standing in the room was a man, nearly the same age as the woman. He turned from his stance staring out his picture window to see her. He face changed little as he walked around his massive mahogony desk that nearly filled the room. He moved up to her and stared down at her. For being an older man, he was nearly six feet tall. His height made Amethyst feel small as he puffed at his pipe, little clouds of smoke rising from the pit.
"And who are you?" It was more a statement than a question, of which the woman answered.
"This is a waif I found lost in the city. she seems to be out of work, Jithral."
"Hmm...what is your name, waif?"
"A-Amethyst, sir"
"Amethyst? How did you aquire such a silly name? Oh never mind, your foolish parents named you that.
Amethyst was about to object to the fact that her parents named her this, which really wasn't the case. She was too young to remember her real name and refused to give it to her captors, so she was named the color of her hair.
"You will work here, no need to contact your parents, since they seem not to care about your wellfare, letting you run through the city like this. You can be at my wife, Kilandra's, bidding. Now go and change."
Amethyst felt her throat close. She had been a slave for most of her life, and when she thought herself free, she was captured again!
"Come on, Amethyst!"
Amethyst followed, her steps slow as to slow the inevitable. Once at the room of which would be her home for who knows how long, Kilandra swung open the oaken door and waited for her to enter. Amethyst stood in the doorway and felt the breeze as the door closed behind her, a lock clicking in place. The room was small, furnished with a massive wardrobe that took up most of the room and a small twin sized bed. In the wardrobe was a mix of clothes, ranging from a maid's outfit to a simple pair of breeches and a tunic. Amethyst picked out the latter and slipped it on, staring blankly at the mirror hanging on the wardrobe door. A tear slipped from her eye as she stared at herself again, dressed in the clothes of a worker, her violet hair falling loosely on her shoulders.
Slumping on the bed across the room Amethyst sobbed, not hearing the lock click...
__________________
Lulled in the countless chambers of the brain, our thoughts are linked by many a hidden chain; awake but one, and in, what myriads rise!
Posted by Jorel Lith on 06-10-2002 10:09 PM:
"Well Sleet, either this map is wrong or I've got us lost."
Sleet of course didn't answer, being a horse and all. Jorel had left Karakai about seven days ago. The map that he was inscrutably searching right now was purchased there. Somewhat of a false hope as no one has ever mapped a route through the Karakain desert to the SW coast of Asheri. Atleast no one that Jorel could find. Traveling through this desert is risky business as the routes generally have to travel from oasis to oasis, never actually going directly to where you want to go. This map had indicated to Jorel the second oasis was right here. The route had taken him on a more southerly direction than he truly wished to take, but it was the best map he could find.
"I'm going to throttle that merchant. The map is accurate to the first oasis - 2 days ago if you have forgotten Sleet -- but since then has been totally worthless!"
Sleet snorts ruefully and stomps his feet. He of course had to carry all the water, food, and anything else Jorel believed he would need on this crazy journey into the desert to find a fabled village to take him across the straight to Demos Island.
Jorel, almost following his horses thoughts, wonders why DID he choose this route...
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"Jorel!! You in??!?"
"Where else did you think I would be Kern? Can't you hear my hammer from out there!?" Jorel responds somewhat exasperated at his fellow smith's obvious question.
Kern walks into Jorel's smithy dressed as if he were at the fair. Kern also was a smith and so his large shoulders and chest made his pauper's shirt bulge and almost rip at the seams. Although he was no nearly as strong or as big as Jorel. Having reached a height of 6'8" Jorel was the biggest and strongest smith in Nyliam Proper. He and Kern had grown to be good friends over the past years as their smithies were across from eachother and they did business together often.
Jorel smiles as his friend does a little pirouette to show off his new shirt. "And where did you happen to get that barely put together piece of cloth?"
Kern laughs at Jorel's comment. "I actually just won this off a sailor new come in to port." Kern's face is suddenly grave. "I have some news you aren't going to like so just keep calm for a while.
Jorel's humor gone now, he slowly puts away his hammer and turns to face Kern. He has good idea what's about to come up.
"Well that ship you've been waiting for to take you down to Demos?? Yeah, well, it seems some idiot in the port office forgot how to properly dock a boat. The ship's got a battered keel and it looks as if she'll have to lay over in port for a good 3-4 weeks before they can make head way." Jorel's face was slowly going calmer and calmer. A bad sign to Kern who recognizes his friends temper! "Now just wait a minute. I have good news too!! I talked to the captain and he's decided to cancel your fee if you decide to no longer travel with him on his way south. Since business is slow right now anyway and I've already agreed to keep your smithy for you while you're gone - why I did that I don't know - you can now just go to Demos another way."
Jorel shudders slightly. "Do you realize that the only other way to get there now would be to go down to Callendar and find a berth North to get to the island!?! That could months!"
"Well just listen hear a moment. I think what you should do is go down to Karakai and see if you can skirt the desert and find a fishing boat there to take you over. This here sailor I got this shirt from mentioned that there are a few fishing villages along the coast there that you may be able to get a boat from. You're obviously strong enough to handle it. And I'm sure you could skirt the northern edge of the desert and travel your way along the coast until you find something. It's a perfectly logical plan; just as good as your travel-by-ship plan, and probably cheaper."
Always looking for the cheaper side Kern. Jorel though kind of likes the idea. He hasn't really led an adventurous life so far. Traveling through the cities would be something to see.
As Jorel is thinking the idea through Kern jumps in again. "Look here, I'll loan you Sleet there in my stables. A good dependable horse. He'll take you all the way to the coast and then some. I won't even charge you too much for him." Kern grins.
Jorel suddenly laughs. *Good old Kern. Finds a way for me to continue my plans while still suckering the money out of me!* "Ok, I guess you're right. I'm already paked. I'll just pick out some more supplies with the berth money and then we'll see what I can do. Thanks."
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As grey dawn begins to lighten the sky and the air begins to heat up yet again to sweltering temperatures. Jorel had found it easier to travel at night in the desert when the temperatures cooled down to almost freezing. He tried to rest during the day. Jorel quickly makes camp. and settles in for another day out in the heat trying to keep cool.
"A nice plan of course. Just a few quirks that we didn't think of eh Sleet?? I should probably stop talking to myself. The heat. It must be the heat getting to me already."
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{Cue Nobody!! Hello All! I'm new here and I'm trying to set up a couple of posts here as introducing my character to the world to familiarize him. I hope my posts won't get too monotonous before I get involved with the other characters. Thanks, hope you enjoy}
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-11-2002 11:16 AM:
Regit nearly threw up as the man before him surrounded himself with necromantic power. The sheer WRONGNESS of the magic conflicted with the life of the earth running through him. He saw the pillar of green light move quickly towards the ship, but ignored it for the globe of... it wasn't even black, black infers that colors COULD be there... this was a void. The dull greenish-brown energy of the planet beneath his feet jerked away from the globe as if in pain. Regit's lips curled into a snarl.
"I haven't the slightest what you are doing... but you need to stop it, and now. I'd prefer not to fight you, but I will if I need to..."
Regit's staff hand slid unnoticeably downwards, shifteing the balance to that of a man ready to defend himself.
Two days as a Dedicated and I'm being attacked by some sort of anti-EVERYTHING freak... yeesh...
Mokona growled and held its ground. It was prepared to fight, too.
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Merelania Hitoshinen on 06-11-2002 12:50 PM:
OOC: Busy busy BUSY! Finally finished! *Whew*
Merelania sat in bed, a slight smile upon her face. "Yes, of course I will. If I need you, I'll call you."
Sen nodded quietly as he walked out of her room. "Allright..." The door shut behind him.
Soon after, Merelania lowered herself under the thin sheet and blankets, softly laid her head on the smooth pillow, and drifted into sleep silently after Sen had left.
********************
When she awakened, there was a sheen of sweat covering her body. She muttered something about the warmth of the island being so different in the day than at night and sat up in bed. She no longer felt dizzy or felt her head ache. She smiled at the thought of the boys helping her and threw off the blankets, hurrying out of bed. She stood next to the window sill and remembered Sen's visit the night before, for he stood at the window very quietly, barely speaking to her.
She wondered quietly about what he did say though. Limits? To magic? She really didn't want to die the next time she tried a silly thing like that. She smiled slightly, happy that she had actually succeeded in healing him fully, but also was saddened. Both of the boys had become quite worried for her and she felt bad for having to put them through all that trouble. After those thoughts had subsided, she realized she should go and she how they were coping.
She turned and walked to the small nightstand beside her bed to find yet another glass of cool water upon it's wooden surface. She smiled and took the glass, her throat parched. She drank heartily until the glass was empty. Then she set the glass back down on the table, took her hair out of the two long braids they had been held in, and brushed her hair. The long pale tresses looked like waves of the ocean or the color of the pale sky. Her stomach growled hungrily, for she hadn't eaten anything for a day or two, she wasn't sure. She tossed her hair back and set her worn cap upon her head. Then she grabbed the empty glass and her knapsack, grimacing.
"Eh, I need a bath...a nice, long, warm bath...! Yeah!" she giggled at the thought as she ran out of the room.
When she arrived downstairs, she looked about the inn. She placed the glass at the counter, where she nodded to the innkeeper and smiled. She also asked where the boys were.
The innkeeper simply shrugged his shoulders, not knowing where the men went.
So Merelania strode out into the early light of day to find something to do. She roamed around the city, then walked into a wooded path. The path was treacherous, with thorns and thicket entwined together, forming a type of blockade. She mumbled at how she didn't want to ruin the sharpness of her daggers but pulled them out of her boots hastily, eager to blaze her own trail through the darkened forest. She cut through the rough branches and prickers until the path cleared out into a small meadow filled with wildflowers. She had wondered how this island had gotten it's beauty, and often thought of it to come from the soft kisses of beautiful celestial faeries, making it's exquisite surroundings exotic and amusing to the eyes of humans. Or maybe she was the only one amused, she was not sure.
She sat down for a moment's pause to regain her thoughts and take in the luscious smell of the flowers. Her heart skipped heavenly as she inhaled the sweet scents of clover and honeysuckle, luring her further into the meadow. She began to sing a light tune, as to send herself into a daydream. The daydream brought her into the woods again, yet this forest was darker than the other. She continued walking through the wooded area until she heard water trickling. She looked around helplessly, straining her eyes to see the underbrush and to watch her step. As she was doing so, the sound of water grew louder. She stepped lightly, making sure not to fall into the water.
Then she stopped suddenly. Before her very eyes, a darkened indigo lagoon appeared. It seemed quite dismal and quiet, with a deep tone to it. She wondered how deep it actually was. A small stream trickled into it slowly from a cliff above, forming a tiny waterfall which seemed to be dripping from the sky. She gaped in awe as she gazed at the wonderous view. She gasped softly and then remembered her thoughts of earlier.
"I think I may take a bath here..." she whispered to herself, looking about for any other ways of entry beside her own blazed trail for strangers to enter in.
Once she had seen no other entrance, she decided to go ahead with her plan. She stepped close to the water, slipping the sandal on her left foot off, and dipping her toe into it. She smiled softly. The water actually seemed quite warm to the touch so she imagined it was a warm water stream that was flowing into it. But the trees' canopy still covered most of the lagoon, secluding the light from the water's grasp. She then decided her secret hideaway needed a bit more light.
To reach this goal, she climbed up into one of the tall trees that held branches over the lagoon. She then perched on a sturdy branch and chopped away at the large bushels of forest green leaves that kept the sun's rays out. Soon, the ray's began to shine into the pool, reflecting to bottom and revealing the depth of the pool. She realized that it was quite deep but that it was pretty much crystal clear when seen in the light. She then descended from her perch and stood on the ground for a moment's breath to look at the pool from the ground's view. She nodded in satisfaction and began to strip off her clothing. She tossed her pack and her dry clothing onto a nearby branch for safe keeping.
Once she was fully unclothed, she stepped into the warm water slowly,shuddering and adjusting to the warmth. There was no wind, for the tree's covered the gusts with their thick vegetation, but she felt a slightl chill run through her body. She slid hastily into the water and washed up well, both the water and the sunshine bathing her slickened body. Once finished, she stepped out calmly and dried herself with a small towel she had packed. She then dressed and let her hair hang around her, drying itself in the speckled sunlight, shimmering throughout her pale tresses.
Packing her things, she strode out of the woods and back to town. By then, it was mid-afternoon. Her stomach growled, for she had forgotten to go and get something to eat before she had left. She walked into the inn and ordered some food to eat. She ate hungrily, until her stomach was satisfied and no longer growled achingly.
"Hmm, where might Kane be...?" She had become curious of his whereabouts since their last meeting. He seemed so sincere, as though he really cared for her now. This was twice now he had saved her life. She smiled gently at the thought of someone actually caring for her. She almost didn't believe it. It was a wonderfully new feeling to her. She stepped up to the keeper's counter and asked him if Kane had returned. He said he had not seen Kane nor Sen all day. She worried a bit about them, as they did her when she was hurt but they had probably just left to go have some time alone. Then she thought about Sen's visit and how he seemed to be quite worried for her too. She furrowed her brows, slightly perplexed.
"I should just keep to myself from now on. I'll try not to get into much trouble so I don't have to bother them any." she thought to herself.
With that thought she walked back over to her table and sat down, finishing the drink she had readily ordered after eating. A light tap was felt upon her shoulder blade. Startled, she turned around to see the two boys looking at her.
"Hey, why are you out of bed? You should be resting..." Sen said questionably.
Merelania smiled. "I'm fine now, everything's okay, don't worry about me."
"The last time you said that you almost got yourself killed..." Kane spoke lowly.
"Well, being truly honest with you both, I am much better. Thank you very much for your help, encouragement, and advice. You are very kind." After saying that, she hugged them both quite tightly and smiled.
She had almost forgotten. "Now, where have you two been...?"
Cue: Kane or Sen ^_^
__________________
~When we do things out of great love, rather than great expectation, more comes back to us than we could have ever imagined.~
~The desire to know is not necessarily wrong but remember that if you're not careful one mistake and you'll create monsters worse than imaginable.~
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-11-2002 01:30 PM:
Peering over the the destroyed barrel, Draken couldn't find anything.
I knew I saw something out of the corner of my eye...
Unsatisfied, he turned round slowly to face the sailor...
"My name is Draken," He said as he began to move towards the sailor. "And to prove just how serious I am...,"
Draken then raised his right hand and held it at the small, fluffy animal that appeared to be in some sort of fighting stance. An evil grin spread across his pale, cold-hearted face.
A small orb of dark energy rose out of his ring and forefinger and remained on the tips.
Quickly, he jerked his wrist back firing a narrow beam out of the orb and slamming into the animal which was sent flying back.
Just as quick as he jerked his wrist back, he pulled the Gemini Blade out of its sheath and placed the point on the sailor's neck.
"Take me across the sea on your ship and I'll let you and your small friend live...," Draken said in a cold voice.....
((Cue: Regit or Damion))
Posted by Dannie Callahan on 06-12-2002 12:06 PM:
OOC: I'm finally back in action, guys! 
Orion looked over at Dannie. She had her back to him and her head was in her hand and every now and then her shoulders shook, as if she was crying. After she had slapped him the first time, she had gotten up and run into the forest as fast as she could. He had followed her, more slowly. When he had reached her at a nearby stream, she had slipped her dress off and jumped in. Dannie had been swimming when all of a sudden, she went under without warning. She came back up gasping for air a few moments later. After a few times of this, he had jumped in and saved her, only to discover that both of her ankles were swollen and covered with small cuts that were ringed with bruises.
They had finally gotten back to camp and he took care of her ankles. Afterwards, she sat with her back to him, her head in her hands. That had been almost three hours ago.
He broke the silence first. "Dannie, are you alright?"
"No," she whispered. Her voice sounded so little...like a frightened little girl. Orion wasn't sure whether to leave her alone or hold her, so, he did the latter. He got up and walked to her, then sat and pulled her into his lap.
"It's alright," he murmured as she buried her head in his shoulder. "We'll find a way out."
"Thank you, Orion."
"For what?"
"For being so kind to me, even though I've been so rotten to you," she said softly.
He only smiled and held her closer.
__________________
"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow" ~unknown
"Heart is the enging of your body, but brain is the engine of your life"
~Enigma
"There's a soulmate out there for everyone. Never despair when you think you are alone, for you never really are; somewhere, the other half of your soul is feeling the same thing." ~ me
Posted by Damion on 06-12-2002 02:16 PM:
((Bad move, Draken.))
Draken felt the cold, slick feel of a short sword across his throat, threatening to slice open his neck and let free the red fluid he held within. Damion stodd behind Draken, holding that short sword at Draken's throat, his face set in a neutral positipon, showing no sign of any kind of emotion. A small cut on his right cheek dripped blood due to a small fragment of the exploding barrel.
Damion tightened his grip on the sword, pressing it hard on Draken's neck, as if he was suggesting that Draken drop his sword lest he wanted to die. His left hand was free and ready to either draw his long sword or steal the stranger's sword if he decided to attack. He looked at the other stranger, holding the ouff-bal-like creature in his hands, an expression of pure dislike of the stranger held at sword point spread across his face.
Damion looked back at his captive, and merely murmured three words, "Drop the sword."
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-12-2002 04:12 PM:
Feeling the cold blade of steel on his neck, Draken froze in his tracks.
Who does this fool think he is...
Turning his eyes slowly to try and view the stranger, Draken lowered the Gemini Blade slowly...
Quick as a flash, He swung his right arm behind his head, cracking against Damion's face.
Grasping the Gemini Blade tightly in his left hand, he lunged at Regit, knocking him to the ground. After pulling himself to his feet, he began to run to the ship...But, as he placed a foot on the gangplank, Dark energy flew up around him and he seemed to have disappeared...
Uknown to his new "friends" he hid in the ship and waited for them to set sail so that he could strike...
I will teach that smart-ass a lesson he'll never forget....
A drip of blood hit the plank he was kneeling on. He began to trace the source of the blood and found that it was from his neck.
"Damn," He said as he wiped some of it off his neck...
Posted by Jorel Lith on 06-12-2002 07:33 PM:
The sweltering heat battered down upon him. The decision to travel by night had been taken out of Jorel's hands as weariness and thirst made him travel whenever he could. Sleet had perished yesterday,... or was it earlier today?? Jorel had lost track of time long ago. The only constant left to him was the searing heat of the desert sun and the freezing chill of this savanna's night. The altering of temperatures was very dramatic. Or maybe it was Jorel, now feeling death at hand, who started to truly pay attention to the little things in life.
Jorel continued his trek. Despite insurmountable odds Jorel was determined to make it out of the Karakai desert. How else was he to get home? Home? Nyliam, where he has lived for the past 16 years; Nyliam, where he works in the forge only slightly cooler than the desert; Nyliam, where he has friends, a living, a life. Or the jungles of Demos Island; where he has only the brief recollections of his first 10 years of life; where such monstrosities rage and that survival is never assured; Demos, where his family of years gone by had perished, and his childhood lay dead. Jorel no longer knew which home he desired for more.
Jorel continued his bleak walk, hopefully still travelling to the southwest, too tired to look around and check. And then a flash, as if the ever present sun glinting off something polished rock... or metal. Jorel stumbled across the remaining distance and knelt to see what had caught his eye.
An arrowhead. Yet not one that he had seen in years. It was steel. Fashioned in a manner he had tried to duplicate and had always failed. It had a design unfamiliar to everyone Jorel had ever asked. It was the same design he had seen used by ...
And then something shot through the air, whizzing as it just barely passed by Jorel's head. A scream. A thud. And then another flew past. Suddenly the forest around the encampment no longer seemed the cover the elders had hoped for. The savage Threin rush to the sea to see who had dared to attack their camp. Jorel quickly mopped the sweat from his eyes and ran to join his father on the beach.
Something upon the water had attacked the camp. Jorel noticed several people dead already. Death was nothing new in the Threin camp and it seemed as if Jorel hardly took notice. Who had done this?? Jorel finally reached the beach, his shorter legs allowing the grown-ups to get there first. At first glance Jorel noticed that these puny outlanders were no match for the Threin, even though they had greater numbers. The raiders had beached there ship and most had jumped onto the beach to attack the Threin men and women. There were still several men on the deck of the ship. All but three shot their longbows into the crowd of fighters. The other three seemed to glow.
An explosion in the camp caused Jorel to turn. A fire had erupted destroying a tree and some of the tents. Jorel was just wondering what could have done that when another fiery burst from the sky landed among the Threin encampment. Awestruck with fear, Jorel just stood there. He watched the entire slaughter paralyzed with a serene sense of detachment. Fighting to the last man, Jorel finally watched as both his father and mother perished under a final blast of fiery doom.
"Nooooo!!" Jorel cried.
Finally loose of his fear Jorel rushed to the spot he had just seen his parents and several others, including some of the invaders, had perished.
A cry from the ship, "Get the boy!!" And then an arrow, blunted for this very reason, flew through the air, and struck Jorel in the temple.
----------------
Jorel crashed to his knees on the desert floor. The temperature returned to that dry, suffocating heat of the desert; the forest gone from view; the ocean leagues away. The arrowhead, only a figment of Jorel's heat delusional mind, had disappeared. Jorel silently wept. He didn't care that every tear shed lessened his chance at survival.
Posted by Volsung on 06-12-2002 08:39 PM:
The Sword and the students
Nascent face froze for a moment as a thousand thoughts when throw this mind memories for days of his youth and tales of he had been told his whole life, “It’s a long story but in a nut shell that’s sword is Agrian Wind. It was given to the Magi by the Creator to forge the Dedication temple on Mt. Karovon. It has been held by every leader of the Magi for the last 40 year, until it was lost at the Battle Farye that is why these young Magi keep looking at you. I noticed many have come up to Volsung to asking about his sword as well but it is your sword that they follow. The Fact is that sword is a symbol of leadership among us and whoever carries the sword of Earth and Sky the Magi will follow.”
Ryudo eyes widened, “I know the sword was special but didn’t have any Idea.” Ryudo didn’t really know what to say he just knew that he didn’t feel right suddenly being put in charge of all the magi. “Its not my place to lead the Magi, I mean I was just dedicated I can’t even Fly. Here Nascent you take it. You seem to know a lot more about this then I do.”
Nascent thought for a moment, He had always wanted to be leader of the magi and hold the sword in his hands, but NO his wasn’t right for some random kid to have the sword there most be a reason for it. Then remembered something someone had told him a long time ago ‘The Creator work is mysterious ways and its not the place of humans to try to understand them,’ Nascent sure couldn’t think of a better example of this from all his days. So, Nascent finally spoke up is low gentle tone, “Ryudo I don’t know why you have that sword but I’m sure there is a reason for it. I understand if your not Ready to lead the Magi, for now they can following Myself and Volsung, but remember when we go into battle many will be looking to you for leadership. So keep the sword and we will figure out the rest later.” With that Nascent Broke off from Volsung, Ryudo, and Tyr.
“Does that help Ryudo?” Asked Volsung as he pulled out this sword still glowing light Green, with the symbol for fire blazing red
Ryudo did the same, “I really don’t know about this. I’m not a leader…I’m just…I don’t know I just know that my role in this is not going to be as the leader of the Magi.” Then Ryudo sheathed his sword.
“We will see. In any case about your lesson I think we will put them off until night that way the main group with have stopped, giving us the time we need to train, and learn. Oh before I forget Ryudo would your Lady friends like to train with us.” Pointing at Tyr, “and that other girl Freija?”
“I would enjoy the chance to train Side by side with Ryudo.” Said Tyr speaking up for the first time Volsung could remember. “And my name is Tyr.” She said pulling out her sword and pointing it at Tyr.
“Tyr it is. In any case I will meet you three after dark at the east end of the camp.” With that the Volsung broke off to prepare for this class
******_______
Then night came and the Magi setup camp Volsung went to east end of the camp where he found his students waiting for him. “Well it looks like your all here. Why don’t you follow me a little ways from here that way there are no distractions” Volsung lead the group south until came to a clearing a few mile a wait from the Main Camp. “This will work fine.” Then Volsung gathered everyone is a circle. “Ki magic is the magic of this mind. You see Ki magic draws it power thought us from the sprit realm. I’m sure you have felt it since you have been dedicated though your dedication you will be able to draw energy from this world. With the energy you draw you will be able to manifest your element weather it be Fire, lighting, or dirt try it, but please, please be…”
Before Volsung could finish his sentence there was Fire and lighting were roaring up all around him. Tyr spattered mud over everyone while Volsung had to bring Feija Fires under control before they come burn anything other had her clothes, but Ryudo was covered with electrical burns.
“Ryudo!” Cried Tyr and Feija as soon as the seen Ryudo covered with burns.
“Don’t worry Ladies I have this under control.” Volsung quickly Drew mana for his body magic, it didn’t take much the burn were not as bad as they looked. Then Volsung put his hands of Ryudo and the Burn disappeared from this body. “Ok I think that enough for tonight. Why don’t we head back to Camp.” With that the Three students went back dirty and lightly burned following there very tried looking teacher who look like he had just gotten in over this head.
Cue: Tyr, Feija, Ryudo.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 06-12-2002 09:10 PM:
Her body was well and up before the sunrise came, and she sat on her bed smoothing the sheets with her hands. She had thought about the dream all night and came to the conclusion that either it was about the past of it was a premonitions of the future. Investigating the dream took well to long for her to stand. She decided she needed a walk. Although the city looked like it needed much rebuilding, but she supposed there was something she could take a look at. Leaving her cape and her weapons except for one dagger she left her room and headed downstairs. She stopped at the end of the stairs and noticed how empty the room was. Not even the bartender was there the room was very silent and this seemed to control her interest. A sudden cry from outside she ran outside onto the streets to see a woman looking something. A man companion who Cybele assumed was her husband was trying to comfort her. She saw this as a small but good opportunity to help the people out and to start getting better known. She calmly walked over to the couple and began to offer her services.
“What happened?”
“I’ve lost my precious gemstone. I swear it was on my neck a minuet ago.” cried the lady
“ It probably was stolen dear… Its alright I’ll buy you a new one.” said the man
“Maybe I could help you get it back. I’m an investigator, I can probably help you out.”
“We don’t need an investigator. Its perfectly alright I can just find a new one. We don’t need your services here. Please leave.” replied the man
Cybele quickly backed away. She didn’t want to make a scene by yelling at the man. She just got here she didn’t need to be starting trouble. Walking away backwards she bumped into a person behind her. From the way he looked it seemed as if he wasn’t from here. She wondered why he was so close behind her. He didn’t move from in front of her however and began to talk to her.
"Hello Miss I couldn't help but to under hear your conversation, I think I might have a job for you.”
"We'll what type of job is it?"
“I need you to find something for me.”
“Um... Ok.”
“I prefer not to talk about that in public. If you would like to move to a more private place then we can talk more freely.”
"What I discuss I talk about anywhere. I don’t see a problem with talking about it right here."
“Fine, but I can't tell you everything here. Last least lets more from the middle of the street.”
"Ok fine."
They moved from the street to an entrance of an alley. Cybele tried not to look suspicious but people seemed to be a little bit more nosey than required here.
"I would like you to find the Magic sword en-druziel"
"What’s that?"
“It’s a magic sword said to have unimaginable powers, but it was lost after the last war.”
"Unimaginable powers aye? Hm.. Seems interesting. How much will I get paid for this?"
“500 Mels now and 1000 more when you find to the sword and report back to be in parvini.”
"Hm... Ok I'll take it, but what’s the catch?"
“No catch just don't touch the sword and report back to me in parvini as soon as you find it.”
He started to walk away from Cybele as if he had given him enough information. Luckily she caught him before he got far enough to leave.
"Hold it! Why can’t I touch it?"
“Well if you must know it will most likely kill you. I mean no offense but it was not be for the people of this time.”
"Oh... and you expect me to find this thing?"
“Yes. It’s perfectly safe as long as you don't touch it.”
"...Yea right..."
“But I would suggest you hire a few body guards you don't have to tell them what going on. I just think it was be wise for you to have someone watch your back.”
"Hm... I don’t know anyone around here for protection."
“Find someone. Here is an extra 100 if that make it easier for you.”
"It might but I don’t know..."
“You know your not going to find work anywhere else around here. There are still very few people in the city and most of them are very wary of stranger ask if they have any thing hey would like investigate.”
"Alright. I need to ask just a couple more questions. Where was the sword last seen and what is your name?"
“Well the sword was last seen in the hands of Tsion in the enchanted forest, as for the other I don't have a name”
“I need to know the name of my employer so I can identify you when I come back."
“Fine, if you most have something call me Harken.”
"Ok.. Just point me to the forest and I'll start there."
“Ok but you should try to find some guard first but if you don't want to then that up to you.”
He lifted his arm and pointed northwest. Cybele concentrated on keeping that direction in mind.
“Ok. I will get back to you as soon as I can.”
Cybele headed back for the inn to get ready while, Harken left southward.
__________________
Posted by Amethyst on 06-13-2002 12:30 AM:
Amethyst had never felt so alone, so hated, so violated. She felt as though her soul was defied freedom again, which was worse than before. Her heart cried out, out to what? Who was listening? Who cared? Amethyst sobbed without an end in sight. The thought of slavery again was almost too much to bear. Her mind whirled with images of bondage, her back ached as if the scars were reopening. Thoughts of suicide floated freely in her mind, plots of her own death coming as easily as her thoughts of food just hours ago. She thought of hurling her thin body out the window, or breaking a vase and driving the keen points into her heart. She thought of choking herself, or driving herself upon the sword of a guard.
Why? Why? Oh creator! I curse you! How could you do this to me? I was free! FREE! Now? No! I'm left to work again, no pay, probably no food...save me from this torture!
Minutes that felt like hours past while Amethyst sobbed on the modest bed. Kilandra stood at the door, listening to the girl sob without end. Her brow furrowed as she waited for her to stop. She didn't want her to be seen crying in the hallway, for guests were coming in a few moments. She wanted Amethyst to cry herself out, but she would not. Finally her patience wore to a fray. She fitted the rusted key into the equally as rusty lock and twisted it. The bolt gave way and the door swung open. Amethyst didn't even move a muscle, even though she heard Kilandra's approach.
"Get up girl! You have guests to serve! And none of these crocodile tears! GET UP!" With strength that defied the woman's old and petite form Kilandra hauled Amethyst off the bed and threw her on the floor. With a thump Amethyst collided with the immense wardrobe and stood up.
"Get down to the kitchens, and no whining from you!"
Amethyst scowled but did as she was asked to do. With reluctance she marched down the to kitchens, Kilandra behind her. Once there, Kilandra barked orders to the chefs and all present and whirled around, trotting up the stairs. The inhabitants of the kitchen looked at the sullen, purple-haired girl with raised brows.
"Who are you?" asked a plump woman, in her mid-forties. Her modest brown hair was tied in a hair net, and she held a ladel in her hand. Around her waist was tied a stained apron. She lowered her eyes to look at the miserable waif.
"Amethyst...ma'am."
The woman just sighed and pointed to an unmanned pot, soup simmering within. The suculent odors filled the air and twisted her stomach in uncomfortable knots. It was all she could do to keep from dipping her ladel into the stew and pouring its contents into her waiting mouth.
Finally she could stand it no longer. She dipped the ladel into the stew, every molecule calling to her to eat them...
"AMETHYST!" Cried the woman she had met earlier. She flung her body towards Amethyst with speed that defied her girth. She lifted Amethyst up off her feet and practically booted her from her kitchen, her nerves frayed and seething.
Amethyst collided with a statue placed outside the door and nearly knocked the ivory marble woman onto the floor. Crying pathetically she flung herself onto her feet and bolted out of the kitchen's hall. Ignoring the flabberghasted guests of Kilandra, Amethyst sprinted out the door, only to be stopped by the blade of a guard, its keen point coming to rest in her midsection...
__________________
Lulled in the countless chambers of the brain, our thoughts are linked by many a hidden chain; awake but one, and in, what myriads rise!
Posted by Amethyst on 06-13-2002 05:24 PM:
the death...or is it?
Amethyst gasped for breath that did not come. Her eyes widened with shock and blood filled her mouth, dripping from her lips, growing pale. Her knees shook and collasped beneath her, the blade loosing itself from the gaping hole in her midsection. The guard looked dumbfounded, his instincts failing him at the wrong moment.
Kilandra abandoned her guests and rushed to the violet-haired child, gasping for breath, tears streaming from her eyes, blood pooling around her.
"You fools!" Cried the exasperated Kilandra, who turned and screamed for anyone with a medical background. The only one who knew anything about medicine and how to heal anyone was a simple servant who acted as the overseer of the mansion. He rushed to Amethyst's side and begged for any sanitary piece of cloth available. Another servant rushed forward carrying an armload of freshly cleaned towels and threw them upon the writhing Amethyst, soaking up the blood and staining red.
Amethyst watched the sky roll by, blurred by her tears. The pain was immense, and almost too much to bear. Finally she could stay awake no longer. Her eyes closed into merciful sleep that would bear her away to the heavens. Kilandra bit her lip as she watched Amethyst cease her pained squirming and closed her eyes.
"SHE'S DEAD! Oh curse this day! A child died in my front doorway!"
Jithral emerged from his office and rushed to the crowd, shoving everyone aside, even the sobbing and wailing Kilandra, who simply collided with the doorway and slumped to her knees.
"What is the meaning of this? Why is she lying there bleeding?"
"I-it was I, sir...I thought someone had stolen and was leaving the scene in a massive hurry, plus I heard milady Kilandra rushing after her! I...I just put my blade out to stop her!"
Jithral was peeved. He would have decked the foolish guard if it wasn't for the lack of time he had to rescue Amethyst, who had fallen into a fitfull sleep. Her heart was strained and could barely hold on.
-------
Amethyst opened her eyes. She was floating on ghostly wings, her weightless body hovering above a cloud. She felt free, far more free than she had felt when she escaped...she felt as though her soul was unbound, her heart weightless. Smiling she directed herself down from the cloud, her wings appearing to just be a mirage. Suddenly her surroundings changed. She was standing in a cornfield, the stalks of ripened corn swaying in the gentle breezes. She looked around and got a fleeting glance of a young girl, her violet hair swaying in the winds. It was surreal. The voices were freefloating and echoed in her ears. She floated through the rows and found a modest cottage. On the front steps stood a smiling woman, her hair a pale amethyst. She wiped her hands on her apron and waved to three children, all with some shade of purple hair.
Suddenly her surroundings changed again. She was standing amidst a melee of death, destruction and suffering. Homes were being burned right to left, children being swept up in the arms of horrible men, their faces twisted in the evil they represented. She saw the same little girl, her hair a deep amethyst being hauled up by her hair, dangling there for a moment before being plopped in an awaiting wagon. She saw the anguish spread on the mother's face and the pain as a blade was plunged into her heart...
The scense altered. She was now a floating spirit in a sprawling mansion. Walking in a slow manner was the same girl, her purple hair standing out amongst the other sullen children with brown, blonde and even a redhead.
I...I reconize these people...What is going on? Am I...dead?
She saw the children in the basement, whimpering pathetically and groaning. The sound was gut wrenching.
-------
"Have we lost her?" barked Jithral, his hands covered in blood. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows and his pants and shirt were covered in crimson. The servant who knew the most about medicine shook his head, dabbing away at her gaping injury. Kilandra was in the arms of her dumbfounded friends, all staring blankly at the bloody carnage beyond.
"How close is she? Can we save her?"
"Its hard to tell, Jithral...she's losing too much blood."
"KILANDRA! Stop weeping and send for a real doctor! I do not want my home stained with blood and reeking of death!"
Kithrandra, numb with shock simply nodded. She stood up and with the assistance of her guests, walked out of the house to an awaiting carriage. The carriage jostled away down the lane and headed towards the healer's home.
------
Amethyst reached out her hand, which had now solidified, into the cage where the violet-haired child sat, whimpering in the far corner. The screams of other children on the whipping block adding to the melencholy atmosphere. Amethyst reached out towards the bars of the cage, her hand and arm, followed by the rest of her body, floating through the bars like they weren't even there. She stooped to look at the child and was only slightly amazed that it was her.
This is me! As a child! I can't believe it...I must be dead!
-------
The carriage that was sent to the healer returned. The door swung open and a burly man emerged. He was stout and strong, carrying a large black bag.
"Stand aside, gentlemen!" Bellowed the healer. The crowed split to allow him to reach Amethyst, who had almost died. Her heart beat only a few times a minute now. There wasn't much that could be done to save her.
The healer threw open his bag and dug through its contents, pulling out several items. He worked fervently to save Amethyst.
Hours past, Amethyst was barely alive. By this time she was near death's doorstep. The healer was near his end, failing to come up with any more ways of saving Amethyst.
"She's...I can't save her." sighed the healer, who slumped back on his knees.
Kilandra nearly screamed when she heard the news. She fainted into the arms of her friends, who, by this time, were bawling with Kilandra. Jithral sighed heavily and looked at his bloodied hands, then back to Amethyst, who's heart had finally given up. She had lost too much blood to sustain her.
------
Amethyst watched from the air as the crowd gave up on saving her. She looked down at the healer, who was packing up his bag. She looked at Jithral, who was thinking of what her death would do to his business. She looked down at Kilandra, who had cried herself out. She was obviously thinking of what everyone would think of her.
I'm actually dead? I died? No! I can't be! I never saw outside of Fayre! I want to see the world...
A bright light flashed above her, the ground below fading. A gentle voice beckoned to her. She felt her translucent wings bringing her towards the light...
------
"Wait!" Cried the healer. He leaped backward towards Amethyst, who was being lifted from her resting spot to be brought to the morgue. The man pointed to the hapless guard who inflicted Amethyst's death and drew him close.
"You have the ability to redeem yourself! You will give blood! No questions. You! Servant! Bring me that needle and...that! Bring me that hollow reed!"
Everyone followed the healer's orders as he pricked the guard and drew his blood. He let the blood drip from the needle to the hollow reed and then into another needle in a vein. He had sewn up her wound earlier. The guard watched as his blood seeped into Amethyst's body.
-------
The voice suddenly stopped beckoning and told her it wasn't time. She felt her body lower and the light fade. Her wings vanished as she floated back into her body...
-------
Amethyst's pale skin began to gain its color...
OOC: Sorry if this really can't be done IRL...I'm not much of a doctor :P
__________________
Lulled in the countless chambers of the brain, our thoughts are linked by many a hidden chain; awake but one, and in, what myriads rise!
Posted by Jorel Lith on 06-13-2002 06:48 PM:
Time passed and Jorel walked. He was now just barely sustaining himself by traveling from cactus to cactus, plucking as much water from each that he could. His delusions of before still bothered him. He had thought he had put that partially behind him. But to have such a vivid vision as he traveled closer and closer to the coast only served to reinforce his determination to get to Demos Island. Jorel wandered and wondered. What would he find when he got to the coast; he was no longer thinking if!! If he started to doubt his quest now, then he may as well lay down and die, were his thoughts.
The sun continued to batter upon his partially protected back. A pack of hyenas had attacked him not too long ago and left Jorel slightly scratched but his shirt in shreds. "I'm still alive you beasts!!" Jorel had croaked pulling out his immense battle axe. "I still live!!" As weary as he was it was a testament to how strong Jorel actually was that he could stiull weild such an unforgivable weapon with such ease. Although he no longer had the grace he did before and quite a few of his attacks missed there mark. After killing off 3 the rest of teh pack had slinked away.
Jorel still caught glimpses of them on the horizon. He silently cursed them as often as he could ... for they attracting vultures! Those vile scavneger birds that had ransacked the hyena corpses but moments after Jorel could salvage whatever life he could from them. And not much life at that. Without being able to cook the meat properly Jorel had had to strip some of the meat off of the dead hyenas and place it upon a rock in the burning midday sun. This didn't cook the meat, but was enough to satisfy Jorel's conscience in the possiblity if eating the purely raw flesh. The blood did more than he had thought possible to nourish his failing body.
Jorels thoughts again turned to that of the coast. Would there be a village close enough to provide him a boat for the crossing? Would the villagers even be able to get rid of a boat? He was positive that life would be hard for any such to live on the coast here. Between the ocean on one side, the desert on the other, and 2 mountain ranges to the north and south, life couldn't be pleasant. Jorel was used to the unpleasant though. Life on Demos Island was a struggle to stay alive long enough to potentially have children and then watch them struggle and die in the harsh forest.
Life hadn't really been pleasant for Jorel, even after he had been forcefully removed from the island.
------------------
The child Jorel had awakened to a rolling motion under him. The motion was almost soothing, and yet also made Jorel nauseous. Or maybe it was the afteraffects of the blow to the head that made Jorel nauseous. Jorel suddenly remembered what had happened. He was bound wrist to ankle and lying on the foredeck of the raiders ship as they splashed him with water to wake him. Jorel struggled with his bonds and the cords snapped; even at this age Jorel was incredibly strong. The raiders, quick to react, jumped upon the now free Jorel. He struggled as best as he might but he was still befuddled a bit.
"Enough!!" A cry from across the deck. The voice somehow radiated power!! It was enough to even stop Jorel in his struggle to free himself. "Just hold him." Strong hands quickly grasped Jorel's ankles and wrists holding him spread eagle for this mages interrogation; for don't mistake, this was one of the 3 mages aboard that had decided to attack Jorel's village.
This mage was wearing black robes with a red trim upon them. His face was dark inthe shadow of his hood, but even then his features almost shifted in the shadows making any looked long to cringe away almost sick. The 2 other mages flanked this one. Both wearing reb robes, one a man slightly smaller than the first, and the other a women who towered over all oother on the ship.... although she was still shorter than Jorel's people. For some reason unknown to Jorel only the first mage had his hood up and that made Jorel fear him all the more.
"Boy I would know about this island. It is rumored that powerful magic exists here and I would have it."
Jorel almost spit at the man. This was the first contact with magic that Jorel had ever had and he was steadily growing in his hatred for it. For all he knew Demos Island had no magic, yet he was only a boy not even of age to travel the rites of manhood in Threin culture. Jorel maintained a steady gaze at the Shadow Mage's chest. He was not going to tell this mage anything, even if he didn't know anything!
"It is not actually required that you answer my boy. I have other means," the mage whispered.
And then Jorel screamed. The mage was forcefully ripping away all of Jorel's guards. He was raping the poor childs mind. Jorel screamed and screamed. Finally the mage had finished his intterogation and Jorel fell to his knees weeping. It was no longer neccesary to hold him. That horid invasion had left Jorel traumatized severly.
"There is nothing here," the wizards icy tone almost more frightening than any other man's rages. "You were wrong captain." And then with a negligent too of his wrist a black vortex of nothingness flung to strike the pirate captain in the chest. Without a word, the captain fell to the ground, dead, with a gaping hole in his chest. "Turn the boat around. We are leaving now." The black mage turned and stalked to the forecastle no one getting in his way.
"Come here boy," this was the female mage. "You would be luckier if you had died. Apparently you show promise. Not many survive the master's questions. You will be one of us!" An almost manical glee had transformed the womans face from semi-kindness to a mask of terror.
The possibility of Jorel becoming one of these revolted him. It also terrifed Jorel beyond belief. He was quickly clamped in iron chains this time and led below to the quarters of red mages. There he spent a horrifying 2 days as the ship travelled the sea going who knows where. Jorel spent most of that time trying to avoid the horrible gaze of any of the mages. They were determined to start his "training" as soon as possible. Jorel went through horror after horror in that ship's hold. They ravaged his mind for hours at a time trying to gather whatever information they could of the boys life, trying to learn how best he would learn their ways.
Jorel grew to hate magic beyond all things. The only magic he had ever known had done this to him. And that was only the beginning. The mages soon grew bored it seemed with their rummaging of his thoughts. Soon they started to implant there teachings. That was a torture beyond description. They implanted their own thoughts upon his!! He now had some horrifying images of the lives of others. His training had begun??
Fortuanately 2 days was all Jorel had to take of this. Through his implanted thoughts he had realized the training of these other mages had taken years. Years of such torture!! Another shipi had been sighted in the area. And it was baring straight upon them. The mages hurriedly had left Jorel to his own.
Jorel sunk to his knees and drooped. He was too horrified to understand anything of what was going on above on deck. He was too scared to fall asleep. So he just sat there too tired to even weep anymore. His chains restricted his movements so that he couldn't even sink his face into his hands and try to forget these tortures.
Soon the noises above had stopped though. The only thing that Jorel could hear now was the steady tread of someone coming down to the cabin. The door flung open. Jorel fainted at the sight of a Nylian marine standing in the doorway.
Jorel soon repressed all memories of those two days. The Nyliam ships had apparently attacked the known pirate ship and quickly dispatched all the pirates. There were no confirmations of magic or any mages aboard. The Nyliam ships, for there were 3, took the child Jorel as a freed prisoner and turned him over to the authorities once docked in Nyliam Proper. Jorel was taken kindly, and once his strength was apparent he was apprenticed to a local black smith.
--------------
"And here I am now! Searching in this god-forsaken desert for an ocean!! HAH!" Once Sleet had perished Jorel had taken to mumbling to himself in his fits of despair. Jorel looked over his shoulder once again. There upon the horizon the hyenas still awaited and in the air, the vultures. Jorel just ignored them once more and continued his plodding through the desert.
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-15-2002 01:56 PM:
Regit felt about Mooscue checking for injuries. Strangely, the beast had no injuries aside from it's pride. It growled, then triggered the visualization ability in Regit again.
A putrid pillar of that evil stuff Regit had sensed about Draken earlier spilled off the deck of the ship. Regit gripped his staff tightly, then ran up the gangplank, turning to face the 'invisible' Draken with an incensed expression on his face.
"I don't care if you're trying to be invisible, I can't see anyway. Your filthy... SORCERY... gives you away. Now stop being a coward and fight like a man!!"
Regit lunged toward Draken, swinging the staff almost like a baseball bat, but kept his grip on it far tighter than a player would. Draken parried easily, but was startled when the staff gripped his blade stronger than he had and tore it from his grip. Regit tried using some of his Earth powers, and managed to disengage the magnetism of the staff for a moment. The blade went flying over the edge of the ship, landing pointfirst in the sand. Regit pulled the shaft of his weapon back towards him, then sent the tip smashing into Draken's solar plexus, driving the breath from his body. He stepped back and tried not to retch at the vile filth attempting to call itself magic pouring from Kizdean's body.
"Leave this ship now. I have no right to give you passage, as it is not my ship, but I paid for my ride and I'll be damned to every one of the Nine Hells if I'll let you ruin my trip. Now get off before I decide that your skull would look better two-dimensional."
Unbeknownst to Regit, as he is saying this, Mooscue has ascended to the deck, and is glowing bright red. It headed straight for Draken, and stops about a foot in front of him.
Leave now. It is bad enough you stoop to such levels of putrid magic as Necromancy. But to impinge upon a Dedicated of Earth, which holds dominion over natural life itself, is a meritable offense worthy of destruction. LEAVE NOW.
(Cue Draken/Damion)
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-15-2002 02:31 PM:
Keeled over, Draken slolwy lifts his head to the sailor....
His eyes began to grow even paler as he pulled himself up.
Draken then began to mutter a few words under his breath whch grew louder and more ominous each time he said it.
"Rise, ablaze, libidinous
Devildom voyeurs
Ascend to smother light
Nascent aeons confer....."
A huge uproar of energy pulsated around a large circumference as the boat rocked hard on the dock. Suddenly, a huge skeletal hand ripped out of the earth. The plantlife growing around the hand withered away as an arm began to rise up.
The arm continued to ascend and a head rose from the small abyss. Another pulse of energy caused the skeleton to rise completely from it's grave. The skeleton weilded two huge double axes and it unleashed an ear-splitting screech as it swung the handle of the axe at Regit, knocking him off the gangplank and into the salty depths.
Turning to Damion, the skeleton brought the axes down with a thunderous crash, but Damion managed to leap out the way in time. Ripping the axes out the ground, the skeleton lurched towards Damion and unleashes another screech...
((Cue: Regit Or Damion)
Posted by Tygan deParte on 06-16-2002 10:48 AM:
Arrows flew through the air, one of the soldiers was struck in the chest by three such arrows. Another soldier was pounced on by two fiero and was quickly killed, being torn limb from limb. This however was it for the group of adventurers, they would lose no more to being unprepared. Quickly the air dedicated soldiers brought up barriers of wind to knock off incoming arrows. The fire dedicated brought up walls of fire on and in front of the fiero, causing the air to fill with the terrible stench of burning hair and flesh.
The leader of the Ganian soldiers began shouting out orders, “Aim your attacks on the Fiero! The Air Dedicated can deal with the arrows, the elves are not our enemies! Avoid killing them unless they charge with sword and spear!”
Tygan drew Lun’delneth and E’vnshaldar from their sheaths and charged forward, he thrust his blades into one of the fiero, receiving a few scratches from the beasts claws before it died. Another fiero looked to him with a glare, “You!” having apparently remembered Tygan from his earlier adventure through Evisis, the beast leapt at Tygan, though lost its head midway when Palin stepped in with his blade.
“Really, you should learn to make more friends,” Palin grinned and ran to help other soldiers fighting against the fiero. Another fiero came at Tygan but quickly received two blades into its chest and another in its back from Carla.
Tygan smiled at Carla, “Well I think you’re finally starting to get the hang out this fighting.”
She giggled but ended out tripping over the fiero’s corpse, luckily also causing her to duck under another fiero’s attack. Tygan thrust his rapier into the beast’s throat, finishing it off.
“However you still need to work on your ability to stand,” he grinned.
“O shut up!” he took her hand and pulled her up. They looked around to see that Palin and the soldiers had done off with the rest of the fiero. The elves had stopped firing and didn’t seem to be coming out with melee weapons.
“Ok!” shouted Palin, “Let’s get inside!”
**************************************
They all relaxed in the first chamber, two men were left to guard the entrance to the chamber. Those of water dedication went around and healed the wounded.
“It’s nice to have so many casters no?” Tygan asked Palin.
“No kidding, makes me wish I had a few tricks of my own,” laughed Palin.
The leader of the Ganian group walked up to the two, “I think we should begin to move deeper, the elves will likely not come in, but nonetheless we are free bait sitting here. Plus there are stories…….and well I’d like to be out of here as quickly as possible.” They looked around the finely decorated room, it was an ornate antechamber, with expensive and ancient artwork and jewelry decorating it, though it was covered in dust, then Palin nodded.
***************************************
They walked down the first hall, everyone was on their guard. There were spider webs coving the walls and roof and they even saw a few pieces of what seemed like giant spider corpses, though they were old and appeared to have been eaten by rodents or some other creatures of this hell.
One of the guards looked around then began to talk, “You know, I talked to a guy who said he’d been in here. He said he was here with the Arboreal Prowler himself. At the time I didn’t believe the man, but now that I see this, I think he may have been telling the truth. It’s all been like he’s said……and if I’m right the worst is about to come, some giant room with a small bridge and a creature beyond our wildest imaginations…..”
“Shut up will ya!?” said another one of the soldiers, who seemed more than nervous, all of them had heard the stories.
They arrived at the end of the hallway to see exactly what the man said, a large pit with a small bridge, about half a foot wide, “Kyle! Jarcon!” The leader called and two of the men came forward, they were earth dedicated, “See what you guys can do to make this say….safe?”
The men nodded then took to work, the chamber was about 200 meters long, but the men were skilled with their magic. When they finished casting the bridge was now about three feet wide, a much better width.
“Tygan……I’ll fall…..” said Carla in a low voice, knowing very well her tendency to be clumsy.
“Don’t worry, just walk in front of me, I’ll make sure you make it,” she turned and hugged him, then the group began to walk across, Palin, Riena, Carla, and Tygan in the lead of the group.
Carla slipped, “Aaa!” she screamed. Tygan leapt forward and caught her leg just in time, he held her there as she hung over the edge, his feet keeping them up by being grappled to the other side of the bridge.
“Tygan help me!” she cried.
“Don’t worry, it’s ok, I can pull you up, there’s nothing to worry about,” Tygan began to pull her up but then she screamed again. Looking down into the pit they first saw a tan dot in the darkness, but then it grew and grew. A large serpent head attached to a neck longer than any of them could possibly imagine flew straight for the two. It’s maw opened and it continued at an immense speed. Then everything went black for Tygan.
***************************************
He was standing in a dark tower, the walls black, the architecture gruesome and representing all that is evil. He stood in a line with eight other figures, though all of their features were pitch black to him and he could not make out who they were. In front of them stood two figures, a smaller man whom was also pitch black and a magi, which Tygan could pull out some details of. The magi had black hair, black robes, and dark looking eyes.
This vision disappeared and another came, this time he was in a dark cylindrical room, the only people in it were the dark magi and himself. The dark magi put out his hand and shot a bolt of dark flame at Tygan. Quickly Tygan summoned a shadowy barrier around his body and the flame burst around the smooth edges of the magical shield. With a grin Tygan outstretched is arm and aimed his hand and gaze at the mage…………..
***************************************
A dark streak of power shot forth from Tygan’s hand and struck the serpentine beast in the head. Upon contact the dark streak covered the creatures head in purple flames, killing it almost instantly. The long neck and the burning head of the creature fell deep into the abyss of the pit, smashing off the walls on its long fall to death.
Tygan pulled Carla the rest of the way up, with the last pull she fell atop of him and they both just rest atop the hard, yet safe, surface of the bridge, Tygan holding Carla close to him.
“How did you……” she began to ask, but Tygan just shook his head.
“I..I don’t know….I had some sort of vision…..” Tygan closed his eyes, hoping for perhaps a deeper explanation, but none came.
The Ganian troops looked to Tygan with a mixture of emotions, some were smiling, glad he saved the girl, some nodded in approval to the rescue, but questioned the means, and some gave unpleasant looks. The leader walked up to the couple, “You failed to mention you were a caster of the dark arts….”
Tygan looked at the man, “Tis because I didn’t know……..” I hope this doesn’t cause further problems in this quest, I don’t even know the origin to these powers……….
The leader wanted to question further, but by the look of the young man he could tell that Tygan wasn’t lying, “Very well, I just hope you use the power for good, because if you do one thing to endanger my men……I will not hesitate to fight you…….”
Tygan nodded, “If I do one thing to endanger your men, I give you permission to fight me.”
The man helped the two to their feet then clasped Tygan’s hand in his own, “You did a brave act there, something I don’t even know if I would have had the courage to do.”
Tygan smiled at the man, “Well I…….” The conversation was interrupted by some horrifying roars, they looked down into the pit to see two more of the serpentine heads rushing their way up to the group, “Hurry! Get across fast!”
Tygan took hold of Carla and ran across with her to make sure she would not fall again. One of the giant serpentine heads struck a Ganian soldier, he was thrown off the bridge and unluckily caught in the mouth of the other head. The men screamed and released magical powers on the beasts as they ran across the bridge. The first head ate one of the men, but had a stone spike driven through its throat by the next soldier whom happened to be earth dedicated. The head fell into the depth of the pit much like the first had. Two more men were thrown off the bridge by the other head before all of them reached the safety of the other side. A few of the soldiers stopped at the end of the bridge to send a few more bolts of fire and lighting at the creature.
CUE: Palin you up, I left out the creatures you wanted to have put in so that you could bring them in. I just went through the beginning stages and went off Arboreal's old description of it. There are still 8 soldiers, the leader, and of course our little group.
__________________
Can't say you'll lose if you never try.
Can't say you've won, if you happen to die.
---------------------------------
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus.
Let us rejoice then, while we are young.
---------------------------------
To die is to sleep, only you forgot to turn on your alarm.
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-16-2002 12:00 PM:
((OOC- Kizdean, I think that there was a little thing said about watching your powers as a condition to approval. I dunno, but we may be hitting borderline... -OOC))
Regit floundered in the water, then frowned. A pillar of stone rose from the sea bottom, pushing him back up to the deck.
"Wait... how did... I'll figure it out later..."
Regit dashed up behind Kizdean and slammed the length of lodestone into the base of his neck, throwing Draken to the ground. He then leaped over Kizdean's inert form and drove the staff through the skeleton's skull.
"I hope this works..."
Regit pulsed wave after wave of life energy, borrowed from the area's vegetation, into the skeleton, and managed to convince the skeleton to follow the normal way of dead things: It rotted where it stood. As it crumbled and the axes rusted to nothing, the life energy spilled back into the grass and plants.
Regit tumbled to the ground, panting.
"That... was hard..."
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-16-2002 12:34 PM:
((OOC- Regit, I had a feeling that I was pushing my luck a little bit- OOC))
Draken lifted himself off the ground and stretched his back.
"Damn," He muttered as his back cracked.
I think I need to be more cautious around this one....
He then knelt down and picked up the Gemini Blade. Slowly, He stood back up to look into the face of his opponent. A sudden burst of energy filled his body and he seemed to fade and re-appear behind him.
"No-one makes a fool out of me. Especially no blind sailors," He said quietly.
The tip of the Gemini Blade then slammed deep into the shoulder blade of Regit. He then began to twist the Blade slowly in the wound to increase the damage.
Pressing his left hand against his back, Draken used his soul push technique to propel Regit off the end of the Blade and into Damion.
His energy nearly sapped, Draken lumbered onto the ship quietly so as not to be noticed.
I need to end this quickly so my training can commence...
((Cue: Regit Or Damion))
quote:
Peace Sells......But Who's Buying?
Posted by Freya Devi on 06-16-2002 03:03 PM:
The wreaking stench of the spawn’s breath engulfed her body. Fears were found on all parts of her body, in her shaking hands and fast breathing. Only a few seconds had passed since she caught it behind her and she couldn’t think of any ways of staying alive. She quickly looked behind her to see the deep dark canyon not far from her. The thought of maybe a free branch crossed from her mind and the plan was in action. She placed both ends of her staff in her hands and immediately tripped the spawn over. Hoping for a few seconds time to run she ran to the canyon and looked down to the slick smooth sides of the canyon. The spawn was only feet away and there was nowhere to go. She made a jump for it anyway.
Her hands caught the edge of the canyon and held a tight grip. As the spawn came to the edge Freya grabbed his leg and pulled it over the side. It moaned as it came tumbling down to the bottom of the canyon. She watched as the gravity kept its toll on the piece of matter and was soon aware that she was about to meet the same fate. Her feet were unable to find a free piece of earth and the only was to either scream or pull herself up. She used most of her strength to pull her up only halfway to solid ground and then stopped to hang in the same position as she started in. She then moved to her other solution.
“Help! Noah! Sidd! Help me someone!”
The long silence after that disappointed her for she felt she had made at least one friend to count on.
Maybe there just too far away to hear me.
Her grip began to loosen on the earth and she began to fell herself slowly drip lower. The sounds of footsteps helped brighten her spirits but she soon thought it was her imagination and waited to fall.
__________________
Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thime.....She was a true love of mine...
Posted by Damion on 06-16-2002 05:49 PM:
((Damn lack of Internet sources! Sry for taking so long.))
Damion slowly stood up, cracking his neck a few times and rubbed his cheek. He then smiled.
Figured he'd do something like that. Way too predictable.
Sheathing his short sword, he looked at where the stranger stood, while the sailors ran and fled in all directions in oblivious chaos. Damion slowly walked towards the stranger, dodging the frightened sailors as they seeked shelter and safety from the two sorcerors. Damion unstrapped the steel staff from his back and held it in his right hand, still walking towards the stranger. As he neared the sorceror, the man laughed, pointing his sword at Damion.
"Please, you expect to fight me, when you don't know any magic?" the stranger cackled, his sword waving tauntingly at Damion.
Damion looked at the man, laughing so confidentaly, then smiled, and began to laugh, small at first, but as the stranger realized Damion's laughter, Damion laughed louder, until the stranger had stopped laughing and Damion was howling. And then he struck, without warning, spinning the staff in both hands, disarming the man's sword, knocking it into the air, then drove the staff into the man's face, sending him reeling backwards, holding his nose as blood poured out of his nostrils. The man looked up, and Damion was no longer there.
"Dammit, where are you?!" the man screamed, but it was too late. Damion was upon him in an instant, lunging forth from behind the stranger with both of his blades outstretched, ready to pierce the man's torso.
Go ahead and dodge. You'll never know what hit you next...
((Cue: Draken or Regit))
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Volsung on 06-16-2002 06:08 PM:
The world in heat, stone, and air
The days passed by quickly for Volsung, despite the fact that he wasn’t getting much sleep with these late night training sessions with his students, not to mention being forced to use his body magic some much to heal his students was taking its toll on him. But the still Parvini was still a few days away, and there was a chance that he might be able to rest. It was a small chance but you never know. In any case, tonight session was going to be fun. He had been looking forward too since he had taken the job as teacher. ‘The chance to teach his students about how the world and how to see it in a whole new light,’ Volsung smiled and he went to the east end of camp.
After a short walk, Volsung found Tyr, Ryudo, and Freija. Volsung couldn’t help notice that Freija sure seemed to look at Ryudo a lot, but ‘oh well what do I know,’ he thought ‘I haven’t got this whole love thing figured out myself. For the time being I think I will just stick to teaching.’ “Hello everyone are you ready for something different?”
“Different? What else is there besides controlling our elements,” Asked Freija.
“That a good question. One I bet Ryudo and answer.” Volsung said turning his gaze to Ryudo.
“Well with my earth magic I can do more than just manipulate the earth, I can also feel changes in her. For example I can feel the camp of Magi behind us, people walking around, cooking, anything which disturbs the ground, I can feel it.”
“Thank you Ryudo so that is what we will be doing tonight. Ryudo if you wouldn’t mind handing Tyr’s training then I will take Freija, then when we are both done I will teach you. Is that ok with everyone?” They all nodded and then Volsung went off to teach Feija while Ryudo and Tyr stayed where they were.
“Ok close your eye’s Freija, you see as a fire dedicated you can do more than just make fireballs, you can also sense and control heat, and that what were doing now.” Then Volsung gabbed Feija and spun her around until she looked dizzy. “Ok now find your way back to camp.”
“But I can’t see anything.” Freija said in a sarcastic voice.
“That why we’re doing this, so that you can see without your eyes. Now concentration on the world around you, and let the fire element see the heat the world is giving off.”
She pushed her eyes together tight, trying to concentration. “Relaxes, you let your mind reach out and see the world.”
Her eyes relaxed, “I think I can see you, but your a shades of red.”
“That’s the way things should look the hotter something the darker the red. Now can you find your way back to camp?”
“I see a large red spot just a little darker than you. Good then go to it but watch your step, because the ground is a little bit more tricky to see.” The rest of the lesion when off with out a hitch, when Freija got to the camp, Volsung told Freija to get some sleep then he came back to where Ryudo was training Tyr.
“Hello Mr. Vesper,” said Tyr while Volsung was still behind her, “I could feel you coming.”
“That’s good I’m glad to see Ryudo teaching you a few things.” Then Volsung turned his view to Ryudo, Looks like you did a good job, are you ready for your own training?”
“I think so, but I think Tyr should go back and get some rest.” Ryudo said to Tyr as she opened her eyes to see the world again.
“Ahh but I wanted to stay and watch,” said Tyr in a bit of a playful voice.
“No, I’m with Ryudo on this we are only a few days away from trouble and when that hits you are going to need all the strength that you can get. So, go back to camp Ms. Aulna.” Tyr frowned a little bit but she knew they were only concerned about her.
As soon as Tyr was out of sight Volsung spoke up, “You did a good job training Tyr, and I’m sure you already been learning how to use your new found power to increase your awareness of the world.” Ryudo nodded, “Good I was hoping as much.” Then Volsung pulled out the Sword of Fire and stuck it in the ground. “Ryudo, I was wondering if I could look at your Sword.”
Ryudo unsheathed it and handed it to Volsung, “If I may ask what are you looking for?”
“I don’t really know. Its strange, it has the same fell but not as power full, it also seems like something is missing.” Then Volsung picked it up and launched a firebolt from the end of the Blade. “Its still very powerful.” Then Volsung handed the Agrian Wind back to Ryudo.
“So, is that the only reason you asked me to stay out here? To see what my sword could do in your hands.”
“No no,” said Volsung shaking his head. “I was just wondering how much different it was and if it could change the balance of the upcoming battle, also I plan to teach you how to fly tonight.” Ryudo eyed widened
“Really? I was hoping we would get around to it soon.”
“Yep, tonight the night.” Then reached down and picked up his sword and sheathed it. “Fly for me is difficult thing. It took me mouths of using my magic before I mastered it, but for you it should be a breeze, literally. The key I’m told is to master the wind and to make yourself part of it. When you have done that you will be able to fly like a bird.”
Ryudo looked like he doubted it a little, but he understood that when you set your mind to it you can do just about anything. Ryudo closed his eyes and started concentrating. After a moment, Ryudo feet start edging off the ground. “I’m doing it. I’m doing it.” Ryudo said like a five year who had just gotten a big piece of candy.
Volsung smiled, ‘I’m getting pretty good at this teaching thing.’ “Good Job Ryudo now see if you can move your body around a little more, and see if you can get a little higher into the air.” Which Ryudo quickly managed to do.
The flight training when on like that off about a hour until Ryudo looked like he was going to collapse. “Ok Ryudo why don’t you come down. And we will go back to Camp and get some rest.”
“Sounds good this whole flying thing sure taking its told on me, I feel like a could pass out.” Ryudo said as he came to touch down on the ground again.
“That normal, I felt the same way after my first time I tried to Fly.” Then Volsung patted Ryudo on the back and slowly walked back to camp.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Rhea Wildfire on 06-16-2002 06:37 PM:
She slid her foot on the wire and spread he arms wide for balance. Looking down helped sometimes but straight was even better. She placed on foot in front of the other with giant steps. In her mouth were three daggers that she held on to tightly. Her arm was moved to get the dagger and was placed in her left hand. Her attention was not on the wire anymore it was on the daggers. She tossed on into the air and caught it with the other hand. Her feet were still moving forward on the wire. Her hands began to juggle to daggers and then soon she stopped walking and lifted up her leg and began tossing them above and below it. A small applause came from this and she knew it was time to change her act. She caught the daggers and dropped them below. Her hands were set up for a cartwheel on the wire. She began to flip but missed the wire by inches and began to fall to the floor. She was caught by one of the safeties and waved as she exited the floor.
Although she felt like crying some she also wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible. So all in all her prayers were answered. She waited outside the main tent for Lloyd to come and stop watching the show. She believed it was already a disaster so no one should have stayed. She walked in a figure eight waiting for the show to end. Her body showed signs of irritation and her mind was only focused on getting out of here. Lloyd finally came out chewing on some popcorn. Rhea tapped her feet as he walked slowly to her watching everything around him.
“What took you so long?”
“I just wanted to see the end of the show. How come you weren’t out there with them?”
“I didn’t feel like it…. Plus did you see all those faces. I wouldn’t dare going back out there.”
Her face showed a sigh of embarrassment that everyone could totally notice. She bent her head and pretended not to care anymore.
“I think we should go before my parents catch us.” Rhea added
“Ok, Our stuff is packed right?”
“We’ll mine is I don’t know about yours.”
The both laughed as the realized they did pack along time ago and ran to Rhea’s tent to get their supplies.
__________________
And on the flying trapeze you see...
Posted by Avatar Worldmaker on 06-16-2002 09:21 PM:
OOC: As Alexandros
Alexandros sensed a new power about him, and it stirred something within him, breaking the sweet reverie that he had stayed in for so long. His powers were refreshed more than completely now, and his weariness, as great as it once was, now was nonexistent.
His eyes opened slowly, and before him stood a woman, and it was the power that he sensed. She was an acolyte to the order, a new Holy Knight, just having completed the test, her eyes shone with enthusiasm, and her new markings still glowed with the light of their inscription.
Alexandros moved a bit, and found all of his stiffness gone, then in a fluid motion, he rose from the pew, and bowed extravagantly, ending with the Knight's Salute, "My name is Revered Sir Alexandros Fatali. It is good to see a new member within our ranks, Revered Lady. What is your name, young one?"
"I'm Eloise Rane. I saw you...before my test. I didn't know what had happened to you... are you all right?"
Alexandros laughed a bit, and Eloise sensed a great power in him, there was more to this man than humanity. She did not know how she knew this, but she felt it inside of her very being. This man was somehow Angelic, "I am fine... I came here to regain my strength. No more than three weeks ago, I assaulted the Black Tower alone, unaided, and not only survived, but managed to kill one of the Veri that serve the Darkness..."
Alex smiled a bit at the woman. She reminded him of Orocia, in the way that she held herself, but inside of her there was a purity that none except for the ones of their order could match. He looked her in the eye, shuffling his cloak off of his shoulders, and spoke in a soft voice, "You have come and passed the greatest of all of Her tests. What do you intend to do now?"
Eloise was still preoccupied with her new found psyche, and as she listened to him she was also in a state of awe. She tried to compose herself, "There's an opposition force being created in Farai. To fight the Shadow. I'm going to seek their leader out in Parvini..."
Alex nodded slowly, "So I see that it is your aim to eliminate the increasing presence of the encroaching Shav’anel. I praise you on your decision to do so. However, how is it that you plan to assist the movement?"
"I'll assist in any way I can. I'm not sure yet of their strategies, but I'm expected there."
After a short pause, she spoke again, "..Are you returning to the Tower?"
Alexandros yet nodded again, contemplating silently. He looked up again towards Eloise, he sighed, "Yes. I must go again. But I feel that She has given us an opportunity that we must not pass up."
He turned about, facing the exit of the Chapel, and his voice echoed throughout, though it was but a whisper, "I have been vested with knowledge and power that goes beyond that which our order knows today. Ancient secrets lost for centuries are contained within me. I feel that I must spread them to my brethren as much as possible, and attempt to rebuild the Knighthood to the full organization it once was. If you would be willing, I would start that with you, Eloise,"
She walked slowly up behind him, her attention now directed at his words. "How do you plan to do this?"
Not turning, his voice reached her like a soft caress of a breeze upon the cheek, "I would take you as my apprentice, and teach you of the ways that things once were, and with her blessing, will be again. I will teach you of the ancient heavenly magic lost to our order for years, and of the arts of swordsmanship, compassion, and love. This is of course, all your decision. I would not force you to become my apprentice, but in all honesty, I believe it would be not only for the betterment of yourself, but for the betterment of the entire world, if you were to accept my offer,"
Alexandros fell silent, and the rays of light scintillating through the Chapel eerily reflected the silence between the two Holy Knights.
Eloise’s hair whisked slowly in a soft breeze that warmed the Chapel. "I've always lived according to my own morals, my own faiths...I wouldn't call myself selfish, but it would require a lot of trust on my part."
He did not turn, but slowly replied, "Trust, or faith?"
"I have the utmost faith in the creator. Unfortunately, my faith in other people has often been misguided. At least before now."
Alex nodded slowly and turned to her. Suddenly she saw and yet did not see. She saw his wings, great in their glory, stretched out behind him. She saw the great light in his eyes, and the strength in his heart.
"Have faith in her, and trust in me, and I swear to you that I shall never lead you astray,"
"I do." She had to forget her past. "Whatever we can achieve as a result would be a blessing to Aeterna,”
Alex reached out and clasped her shoulder, "I agree, Eloise. But you must realize that your training will be intense and hard. Are you willing to make this sort of commitment?"
She smiled. "I already have, long ago."
Alex smiled in return, and his voice was clear and strong, "Then let us begin our journey to Parvini, my apprentice. I pledge to you to instruct you in all that I know, in return for your obedience and your respect. This is all I ask,"
"Very well. But the respect should go to you, since you're the one who has to put up with me."
Alex smiled and nodded again, "That is exactly what I meant. For you to respect me as your Master and instructor.."
He laughed a bit, thinking about all the trouble he gave to his own masters, then with a large grin across his face, he motioned for her to follow, and he made his way towards the door, "Here begins our journey, our story, our battle. And though only She knows where it ends, I pray for a safe and fruitful ending,”
Cue: Eloise. Credit for this post also goes to her..
__________________
We all want to change the world...
Posted by Emperor Aramus VanVehementi on 06-16-2002 09:44 PM:
The time is now, the place is here, the scene is dark…..
“Trajectory check is confirmed, target sighted and aligned.”
“Terra field sustained, the round is charged.”
“We are ready on your command imperial highness.”
“…. Commence sequence.”
“Affirmative sir, initiating tactical protocols. Target area is clear of our forces. 30 seconds until discharge.”
“Terra magi are doubling their efforts. Charge is growing but becoming unstable.”
”15 seconds until discharge.”
“Charge has become too intense, the projectile is beyond safety specifications for charge containment. The magi have ended their link. Charge is gravely unstable but holding.”
“5 seconds until discharge.”
“Emergency, brace for impact tremors. All non essential crew seek the shelters.”
“3….2…..1…. FIRE!”
A flash as brilliant as the sun’s own radiance scattered the darkness to create an artificial day. It seemed as though time itself had gone aright. Hearts raced in real time as lungs panted to keep pace, yet no other motion could be detected. Everything stood still. Just as eyes had averted from the blinding rays, the world snapped back into darkness as though the night was reassembling itself. A wash of sound overcame the Nylian forces, more booming than any cascade of thunder, the blast sent those standing to their backs upon the ground. The top secret Nylian 24 inch cannon had just sent its first prototype elemental round careening through the humid evening air at astounding speed.
The amazement and awe that the cannon had once held had dissipated over the last week as it had already been tested twice successfully. What kept military officials and Aramus VanVehementi looking on in anticipation was on the very brink of fruition as the projectile closed upon its target site over one mile away. Sweat formed upon the brows of the mages as they awaited the confirmation of their growing prowess. Then, it happened….
In a small clearing far off from the cannon and its crew, the projectile, carrying with it a massive charge of Earth elemental energy, buried itself deep within the bull’s-eye of its target. Upon impact, the charge was loosed and a fury of seismic energy lifted the top soil, tipping trees and leveling the test structures that had been erected for this very occasion. A small collective of captured shadowspawn, stationed there to simulate the presence of humans at ground zero, were jostled violently within their iron cages until the metal and their flesh were flattened as one, effectively ending their dark lives. Splinters of steel and wood soared heavenward as building after building snapped under the will of the shaking Asherian landscape. The blast sped off in all directions from the crater. Within seconds its wrath was upon the Nylians. Bodies cajoled and teeth rattled under the strain of the earthquake. Aramus was thrown from his feet which he had just regained seconds prior. He, along with the compliment of all stationed soldiers, were batted about like ragdolls. Spines cringed with pain as bones broke and ligaments tore. Just as quickly as it had begun, it ceased and all faded to black.
Aramus awoke feverish and incoherent. He was surrounded by life mages, officers, and by his side was his most loyal Gregorynn. He tried to move but the mind scattering pain overcame him again. His face drained pale as he crashed back to his bed. He had been unconscious for almost a day. His left leg had suffered a compound fracture and his right was shattered beyond conventional repair. Aramus strained to rotate his stiffened neck to further look about in agony. He felt faint once more as he feared madness had set in. Above him, standing at the head of his mattress towered a unicorn. A silence overcame the room as the mythical being bent down its beautiful form to examine the fallen ruler. The silence was broken by a most beautiful voice that flowed seductively through the air weaved in the Elven tongue. The unicorn kept its strong neck bent down but rotated its head to acknowledge the source of the voice. Nodding in understanding, it resumed its enthralling stare towards Aramus. After briefly closing its eyes the being opened its mouth to release an even more entrancing voice. Without moving its mouth, words of the heavenly tongue poured forth to sooth the pain residing within the Emperor. Aramus looked on in disbelief as all of his ails melted away, awash in the lavish comforts of a stream of heaven’s magic. The shards of bone within his right leg closed upon each other to fuse anew as the protruding femur of his left retracted beneath the skin to set itself true. The throbbing ache of his muscles was also replaced with the feel of a well rested body. Aramus couldn’t move, the joy he felt was almost paralyzing for all of its splendor.
The heavenly language grew faint then disappeared as the unicorn slowly drew its mouth closed. The gentle beast raised its head high and looked once more to where it had before, ears perked in anticipation. With one last melodic Elven command, the unicorn flashed brilliantly. The light then broke into smaller lights, which in turn broke into even smaller lights until there were none at all within seconds.
Out from the crowd stepped a most striking woman. Her blonde hair fell alluringly past a youthful countenance and onto the summoner robes she wore atop of her delicate shoulders. Aramus strained to speak but something within him was stirring. A feeling he had not experienced in a very long time. As he attempted to sit up he felt the dizziness of infatuation descend upon him like a rabid dog. He could only muster the will to sink back to his pillow gazing into her hypnotic eyes, utterly enthralled by her stark radiance. Smiling now and flattered, she moved forward closer to Aramus.
“Greetings. I am Summoner Claudia Stromguard of the Stromguard legacy.”
“I… I… I am taken aback by you….” Just then the recent events of his life began to swirl within his head. This with the met gaze of the beautiful Claudia, caused the blood to rush to his head making him faint. His neck went loose and his eyes drew shut as he exhailed a most pleased sigh. Just before he lost his sentience, he heard her giggle at the sight. He had heard an angels laugh. He knew what he would dream of tonight. Though he would still walk with a limp for weeks, he was incomperably pleased as he ushered in the all too pleasant thoughts of Claudia.
__________________
Unlike my fool of a father, I don't just talk of ambition... I realize it.
Posted by Bara Chinder on 06-16-2002 10:46 PM:
Bara had found the last two days taxing. There was so much to consider and take in. He had now organised for a two-pronged force to move to Endaroth. He also depended upon the fuairbionn coming up from the south.
The Initial force would move along the old road from Parvini to Endaroth. His plan was that this would be the smaller of the two forces. The shadow would more than likely learn of he force coming from the north and concentrate on this group leaving them open to the attacks from the other, larger, force and the fuairbionn from the south and west. Endaroth was not a fortified city in the normal sense but was easily defended as it was set in a group of hills where the mines lay.
Bara was in the midst of assigning clans to each force when Conchuir appeared.
“Well friend, the day finally has come. Here we are. We march on Endaroth today. Bet you never thought the day would come.” He looked around, more for effect than anything else.
Bara had no time to mince his words. “Conchuir, I am assembling a personal warband. A retinue as outsiders say. I have a few able warriors to ride with me, but most are not close. I need you to ride with me, in Endaroth at least. I have Aescher and Cainas but apart from them I know few else. The others are friends of Sayomara. I need trusted warriors and more I need a man from each tribe. Will you ride with me?”
What was not said was spoken as clearly as what was. Conchuir felt a wave of emotion roll over him. “Bara I will ride by your side till death takes me to the saddle of the horse spirit to ride to the heavens.”
A nod acknowledged by a nod told Conchuir that all was understood.
**************************************************
*
Later that morning the two hosts assembled outside Parvini. Firstly the larger force rode down the road to Lunis before it would turn in towards Endaroth.
Soon after the skeleton force, led by Bara rode down the south road to Endaroth.
OOC: More later. If anyone else would like to pitch in it would be appreciated.
Cue: Sayomara, Keigo , anyone else involved. Lets GO!
__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.
Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-16-2002 11:03 PM:
OOC: As Sekirah
IC: The horse refused to go any further. As much as Amanda prodded, it didn’t do any good. Reluctantly, she dismounted and turned to the beast.
“Are we there already? Didn’t you say it was in the richer part of town?” She asked as she watched the horse take shape into Sekirah.
“Yes, and it is, but it would be far to dangerous for me to change there, out in the open. The Magi may not be enforcing the anti-Terra magic law anymore, but they still don’t take to kindly to Terra Mages,” he answered as his silver mane converted into the usual locks of shimmering hair. He pulled his spear from the pack it had been strapped to upon his back. “And I never know what might be waiting to greet me when I get home.”
-------------------
Soon the pair was strolling toward Sekirah’s seemingly deserted home. The building itself was magnificent in every way, but as they entered, Amanda soon realized it was a picture of his old way of life. Smuggled artifacts and various grotesque paintings lined the walls and sat in glass display cases.
“This is where you live?” Amanda was stunned. She had never seen this side of Sekirah before. She knew that he had a dark history, he’d told her that much, but this was a shock.
Sekirah bowed his head in sadness, “The man that lived in this house died when the spawn attacked Fayre.”
Amanda nodded, knowing the true meaning behind his words. “It could use a little redecorating.”
“We won’t be here long enough; it’s not safe,” he stated bluntly. As if on cue, a throwing knife flew out of a dark corner and buried itself in Sekirah’s chest.
Instinct told Amanda to get low, but instead, she sent a burst of flame from the palm of her hand in the direction of the attacker, hoping it would hit him, or at least tip her off as to his location. Unfortunately, the ball of fire missed the man, but it did show her where he was hiding.
With his cover blown, the attacker made haste and had soon disappeared up stairs and leaped out onto the street where she watched him sprint off into the shadows. With the threat gone, she turned her attention back to Sekirah who had removed the knife from his chest and revealed to her that he had already healed himself. The only clue that he had ever been injured was the small amount of blood still on his skin and shirt.
“You weren’t kidding when you said it was dangerous. Are you sure you’re alright?”
“Yeah, I’m fine. It wasn’t poisonous, this time.”
“And if it had been?”
“You’d have to find yourself another mercenary to lust after.” He laughed.
Amanda blushed at his blunt statement. “I don’t lust after anyone, least of all you," she said defensively.
“Then what do you call it, love? I don’t think so,” Sekirah said, the words obviously cutting her deeper than the knife had ever cut him.
“Well, no, I guess not…” she said, turning away. She didn’t want him to see the tears that were already forming in her eyes. ‘How can he just assume that what I feel for him isn’t real?’ she thought to herself in frustration, only egging the tears on. “I guess… I guess I’d call it attraction… undeniable attraction,” managed through the emotions that began to race through her, jumbling up any train of thought that she’d had. All this time she had been trying to get his attention only to find that he’d noticed, but he didn’t want it.
“What is attraction if not lust?” Sekirah asked ignoring her tears and obvious vulnerability.
Upon hearing his words, she wheeled around to face him again. Anger now replaced her pain, and he was going to be the one to feel it. “WHAT? Lust and attraction are not the same thing you selfish pig! They might be for you, since anytime you see a girl you want you go out and screw her, but not for me! No, for me it’s an appreciation and respect; a heartfelt emotion and need to be closer to someone. I used to have that for you! Not anymore; you ruined that!”
Once the outburst was over, she collapsed to the hard wooden floor of Sekirah’s kitchen, curling up into a ball and openly weeping. Shame and guilt filled Sekirah’s heart. He had intended to save Amanda the pain by not showing her his feelings, but it had only blown up in his face and hurt her anyway. Why couldn’t he do anything right? Was he doomed to be a failure with women? Amanda was right he was selfish. Without someone to love, he was nothing.
“Amanda…” he began. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that.” He knelt beside her and gently took her cheek in the palm of his hand. “You’re right, I’ve been selfish and heartless. I… I just didn’t want to hurt you.”
Amanda sniffled and looked up at him, her face still in his hand. “How is that trying not to hurt me?” she demanded, the anger not yet gone from her face.
Sekirah once again bowed his head, he knew it was time for the truth, but how could he tell her? He stayed that for a while, trying to think of ways to tell her that he’d also been attracted to her for quite some time, but nothing came.
Soon, Amanda became impatient and burnt his hand so he would remove it from her face. She stood, leaving him kneeling and waving his hand about in pain. “Get whatever you need and let’s go,” she called down to him.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-16-2002 11:44 PM:
OOC: As Zander.
IC: The crowds bustled about Gania city as Zander and Tiffarah entered through the city gates. The beautiful Girl at his side stood in awe of the gleaming city and made Zander smile.
“Haven’t you ever been to Gania before? You did grow up in this country, right?” he asked her lovingly.
“No, I haven’t been to the capitol before,” she said, turning back to him. “My parents barely let me out of the house, let alone into a city like this. They were always ashamed of me.”
“Well, now that the way gat is up, more Lunari are traveling back and forth between here and Asheri; they’ll probably assume you’re a native to Lunis now.”
She smiled her winning smile and held him tightly. He always knew how to make her feel happy and accepted, two things she had lived without for most of her life. She was looking forward to meeting his parent, but she was also nervous. What would they think of her being a half-elf? She knew Zander would not lie to them about her heritage, but would they think her unfitting to be his wife if they knew?
Zander could sense her unease, but he didn’t blame her; he felt it as well. He doubted that her heritage would be a problem in his family, but he was far more concerned about whether his father would deem him unfit for marriage. He knew that his father had not agreed with his first marriage, but the man couldn’t have done anything about it then. Now, Zander was going to make his father an active part of the decision process and he was almost afraid of what he might say. He would not cross his father again.
He knew that he was not the boy he once was when he married Amalia, and he had grown in many ways since her death. He’d thought it impossible to love another as much as he had her, and now he loved Tiffarah, if possible, even more. He was just a kid before; lost and weak. Now he was a man, and more, a Holy Knight. Gone were the days of running from danger, or recklessly taking on an unnecessary battle; now he made his choices wisely and acted in defense of those around him, especially Tiffarah.
“So, what do we need in here?” Tiffarah asked, rousing him from his thoughts.
“We need to rent a pair of horses so we can make it to Xellos before nightfall.”
Tiffarah nodded and looked toward the sky. The sun was hidden by the city walls and the many buildings within the city, but she knew that it was just beginning to make it’s climb upon the eastern horizon.
After the two of them spent their last few coins renting the horses, they quickly left Gania behind them and rode towards Xellos at a steady gallop.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-17-2002 03:12 PM:
Already worn out from his summon, Draken tried to defend himself using the Gemini Blade. Dodging from left to right, leaping back, trying to return the attack, but by each swing from the Gemini Blade, he began to grow weaker and weaker...
"........Ugh....," He moaned quietly as he slumped down still trying to defend the swipes.
Suddenly, Damion plunged his short sword into Draken's stomach lining. Dark red blood slowly dripped down the side of his mouth, then he began to smile. He then grabbed the handle of the short sword and began to plunge it into his own stomach.
"......Kill me..........KILL ME!!!"
He then began to stumble backward until he was backed up against a tree. His eyes grew blood red as a demonic voice crept from inside his throat. The blad slowly pulled itself out of his stomach and dropped on the ground.
He then began to laugh....A huge and powerful laugh that echoed and boomed around the dock...
"You pitiful fool," The voice spoke as he levitated into the air.
"You know not with whom you mess with,"
A huge shreik pierced inside Damion's ears as Draken swung a huge kick into his face, snapping his jaw...
"What is the matter? Hurt?"
The laugh that followed was a very shrill one that hung in the air...
((Cue: Regit Or Damion))
quote:
Peace Sells.....But who's Buying?
Posted by Damion on 06-17-2002 06:21 PM:
((Draken, you're pushin it, man. Especially the ability to use magic without taking the test of Dedication. Making yourself into a demon is way past the line.))
Damion looked at the stranger, now revitalized by some sort of demonic presence. He rubbed his jaw, and cracked it into placed, wincing at the pain it caused. He watched the man laugh once again, and now he was mad. His red eyes began to flare, his long, uncut silver hair lashing madly in a sudden wind, his mouth clenched, teeth bared. His sword began to shine brightly, as Damion began to focus everything on his enemy. He was now ready to perform Grigor Jinh, his own style of swordplay that had not been defeated by any opponent yet. For once in his life, he was angry, and anger was an emotion, something he was not used to showing. His long sword was held at ready, and Damion's eyes were locked on his opponent, ready for any kind of attack, whether it be magical or physical.
((Cue: Regit or Draken. The next couple of atacks will not affect Damion, so don't go saying that you beat the crap out of him, Draken.))
__________________
There is no such thing as an innocent person, only naive ones.
Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 06-17-2002 09:26 PM:
Adaiva heard it first. The faint sound of a voice, a distressed sound that caused her heart to race. Images of glory and freedom filled her mind when she invented her plan.
Adaiva shook her head to relieve her healing mind of the thoughts brought on by her insanity plagued her further.
"I heard something, back there." Said Adaiva, her voice low. Sidd turned around to look at her and stopped to listen. Noah mimicked his actions and craned his ears to listen.
There was a voice. A barely audible whisper carried by the wind.
Sidd lurched forward and trotted back the way they came. Leading Adaiva by her arm, Noah followed. Upon their arrival at the canyon they found Freya clinging helplessly to the crumbling dirt ledge. She heard them approached and ceased her useless squirming.
"HELP YOU GUYS!" Cried Freya, feeling her grip loosen further.
Sidd almost leaped forward to join the hapless Freya but was stopped by Noah, who abandoned Adaiva to grab hold of Sidd.
"Don't join her!"
Sidd furrowed his brow and looked up and down the massive gorge. His eyes met up with the edge of the massive crator at the end of the rift. He pointed.
"There! We can run around that hole thing!" Stated Sidd. Noah mused for a moment and found no other alternative. They nodded and sprinted down the edge of the canyon. Adaiva stood where she was placed and watched.
Noah and Sidd reached Freya, who's hands here tiring from their position. Her knuckles her white with exhertion. Without another moment's notice Sidd and Noah eached grabbed an arm and lifted her from her near-death experience.
Breathing rapidy Freya clung to her rescuers.
"What the hell were you thinking?" Inquired Noah
Freya shook her head and struggled to catch her breath. Sidd and Noah lifted her to her feet and helped her to the other side, where Adaiva was waiting quietly.
"I met up with a shadowspawn, all I could do was leap over the gorge, or be eaten. At the time, leaping a canyon sounded more pleasant."
Noah frowned. "We'd better leave. We don't want to ALL have to jump a canyon."
Once everyone agreed, the group started off, Adaiva placed at the front for supervision. She mused silently, her twisted mind fighting for sanity. Once she had come to realize her predicament, she made more effort to improve upon the situation. Freya had a possible remedy, but she didn't have it right now.
As night rolled in, the four found a suitible place for resting, in a sheltered cave cleft into the hills by ancient winds. It was a small room of worn dirt and stone, but offered enough protection. They placed stones around the entrance and guarded that with thorny bushes. Once secure the four slipped into an uneasy sleep, unbeknowest of eerie eyes that gazed at them from afar...
CUE: SIDD! Get your butt in here and post already :P Otherwise, its open to Noah and/or Freya
__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)
"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 06-18-2002 09:54 AM:
A lone hay wagon could be seen trundling over the abandoned road running between Fayre and New Dargent. In the back of the wagon, a young girl with flaming red hair sat chewing on a wheat stalk and gazing up into the sky.
It’s so beautiful here, she thought with a sense of irony. But even with the constant threat of Shadowspawn, the crystal sky and warm breeze relaxed and soothed her spirits and for the umpteenth time that day she wondered why she was here.
She knew she had come to finish Reika, but the more she thought about it, the more she questioned her ability to follow through, and that was assuming she ever found her older sister. She sighed heavily and leaned against the bale of hay.
“This is stupid.”
Her decision to come to Asheri had been made in haste, without rational thought. She supposed she could always turn around and go back through the waygate….. But a part of her didn’t want to go back. She closed her eyes and let the expanses of her mind stretch out in all directions, almost like radar. Far far away she sensed something new, something not yet discovered, but she didn’t know what it could be. She concentrated as much of her energy as she could into the identity of this new something but inevitably, she fell asleep and would not wake until the cart had reached New Dargent.
*************
Ÿou!! Girl! Wake up!” The gruff shouts cut through Scarlet’s dreams like a dull knife.
“Huh…Wha-!!”
A hand gripped her fiercely under her arm and she found herself face to face with a Nylian soldier. He examined her closely, taking extra time to study her hair and eyes and nodded.
“This is her.” Confused and afraid Scarlet began to struggled against the soldier and readied herself to use her powers if need be.
“Let me go!! I haven’t done anything!”
Äre you not Princess Scarlet Rosenblade of Gania?” She looked up sharply at the sound of her title, giving her away completely. The soldier nodded again and surprisingly released his grip.
Ï thought you might be. Our Emperor wishes to see you and make sure you are safely returned home.” Scarlet’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. She trusted the Nylian’s no more than she trusted a pack of Fiero. And yet….
“What does he want with me?”
“No more than to see you home, Highness.” There was a sense of truth in what the soldier said and so rather reluctantly, Scarlet allowed herself to be escorted to the Embassy. She reasoned that if she ever felt she was in peril, she would be able to use her magic. The thought gave her some comfort, enough to curb the uneasiness she felt. Though she felt the soldier had been telling her the truth, she wondered if it was the whole truth.
She would need to speak with the Emperor to find out.
CUE: Aramus
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-18-2002 02:51 PM:
Draken's blood red eyes began to fade back to it's original lighter shade of pale. His traced his opponent and glared into his eyes.
"I can read your thoughts.........No, I am not a demon.......Just a Necromancer,"
His serious look then turned into a sly grin as he continued to watch Damion.
He then drew his Gemini Blade slowly and waved it infront of him, taunting him...
He then rushed at him and swung the Gemini Blade at Damion. The Gemini Blade slammed into the ground.
To his amazement, Damion didin't appear to hav a scratch on him.
What The Hell Is Going On Here?
He swung it round, aiming for the torso, but the blade just swung right though him.
Angry, Draken taked a step back and pulled the Gemini Blade apart to produce two blades. He charged at Damion and began to swing the blades at him furiously. Damon swung huge fist into Draken's face that sent him reeling back.
"What the hell is this?," Draken said as he held his jaw.
His only respond was a huge slice right down the middle of his chest.
Draken stumbled back against another tree and held his chest wound.
Black dots filled his eyes...He was falling unconcious... His head drooped to his right as he remained in his temporary sleep.
Knowing what was happening, Draken lowered his heart rate adn controlled his breathing so that it appeared that he was dead...
((Cue Regit Or Damion...Try To Assume That Attack Killed Me))
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-18-2002 04:19 PM:
OOC: As Sekirah
IC: The horse moved slowly below her and Amanda knew he was thinking over what had happened back in Helilal as well. There had been a glimmer of hope and Amanda had thought he would tell her that he felt the same way about her, but he just sat there with a trapped look on his face. She hated that look. The two of them hadn’t spoken since they left Sekirah’s home, partially because he couldn’t speak in his equine form, but mostly because of the uneasiness between the two of them.
At first it had been mere anger and disappointment that Amanda felt at his words, but it was beginning to brew into hatred and disgust. She dwelt on the fact that she had opened up to him and showed him that she had feelings for him and he threw it back in her face, like it was worthless to him. Sure, he had apologized, but she didn’t care about that. She knew what she meant to him now. To him, she was nothing, just a bit of baggage holding him back and maybe offering someone to talk to now and then. Get things off his chest so he didn’t feel so guilty. She hated him for that. She felt so used and she couldn’t believe that she’d fallen for it.
What annoyed her further, though she had so much hate toward him, she still felt drawn to him. Despite what he’d said and done, she still wanted to help him on his journey, and more than that, just to be by his side. She hated herself for that. She couldn’t believe that she stayed with him when they left Helilal; she should have left him then and there, but her feelings kept her by his side, or rather, on his back.
Sekirah’s own mind reeled as he plodded on, back toward Fayre. He couldn’t understand why he hadn’t told her how he felt. Maybe it was the anger in her eyes that made him second-guess himself. If that was the case, then he knew he wouldn’t be able to tell her now. She felt rigid upon his back and he knew that he eyes would show the contempt she felt. ‘But why is she still with me?,’ he thought to himself. He didn’t know, but he decided that when she settled down and started talking to him again, he would tell her how he felt, if she stayed with him that long.
Then there was the matter of the attacker in his home. Sekirah didn’t know what he wanted. Was he an assassin or a thief that was caught in the act? An assassin seemed more probable to Sekirah. When he was gathering money and equipment from around his home to bring with them, there didn’t seem to be anything missing or disturbed. If he was an assassin, would he follow them?
Sekirah contemplated these things most of the day before they camped, sleeping, reluctantly, in the same tent. He enjoyed knowing she was so close, but hated the fact that she wouldn’t even look at him and they didn’t talk as they lay there in the dark like they used to. ‘Tomorrow I’ll travel more quickly,’ Sekirah thought to himself as he turned over to sleep.
In the bedroll next to him, Amanda faced away from the Lunari on her side. Tears were again streaming down her face and she cursed herself for her weakness. How long could she keep this up. Could she really love and hate him at the same time? “There’s a thin line between love and hate,” She remembered her father telling her after she’d overheard one of the many arguments between her parents as a little girl. Maybe he was right, but this night, Amanda would cry herself to sleep. Tears of love for the only man she hated.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-18-2002 06:30 PM:
OOC: As Zander
IC: Home. It was a good feeling for Zander to be back in the city he’d grown up in. As usual, the sound of blacksmiths hammering on their anvils could be heard in the air and weapons merchants hollered to passing people to get their attention. To no surprise, many people did go directly to the merchants as they entered the city. Xellan steel had always been in high demand throughout Gran Adageros and it was growing in popularity within Asheri as well. Light and strong, that’s what Zander had always loved about it. His two katanas, made from the precious metal, had become almost like extensions of his own body.
Tiffarah knew how nice it must feel for Zander, but for her, it was an uneasy experience. She was more nervous than ever about meeting his parents, and the unfamiliar surroundings only magnified the feeling. On top of that, Zander was very familiar with the city, which left her alone in her unrest. Fortunately, the man she hoped to soon call her husband had anticipated her unease and held her close as they walked. He whispered in her ear, assuring her everything would be fine.
Soon they stood at the door to Zander’s home. Candlelight was apparent through the window, so Zander knew his mother and father were home. The cool night air beckoned them to stay outside and enjoy it for a while before confronting his parents, but Zander resisted the urge to remain outside and knocked on the door.
They could hear a stirring within the house and footsteps approaching the door. Zander felt Tiffarah hold her breath next to him as the door slowly opened. Tiffarah assumed that the large man standing before her was Zander’s father. He was taller than his son, and his hair was starting to go gray. He had a masculine beard, but kept it well trimmed and there was a look of shock on his face when he saw Zander.
“Blessed Creator,” The man whispered to himself. “Kara! Come see who it is!” The man reached out and enclosed both Zander and Tiffarah in his big arms, then held them back to take a good look at them. “You did it… By Her blessed name, you did it! You’re a Holy Knight!”
Zander nodded, but remained silent, as his father looked him over with joyful tears filling his eyes. Just then, Zander’s mother appeared in the doorway as well.
“How inconsiderate of you, Marcus,” she scolded. “Invite them in, you blubbering oaf!”
Tiffarah laughed and could see that she would like Zander’s parents very much. Zander’s father ushered them inside and seated them at a large, oak dining table.
“Who’s this lovely young lady?” Marcus asked, giving his son a quick wink.
“Dad, this is Tiffarah. She’s the biggest reason I came to see you.” Marcus’ face grew serious and Kara stopped short as she approached the table with a bit of bread and wine. Zander’s words took them off guard. They’d expected that she was a love interest of his, but by what their son had said, they knew that he intended to marry her.
“Well… it’s nice to meet you, Tiffarah,” Kara broke the silence and set the food on the table.
“Nice to meet you, too.”
Marcus stood, looking Zander in the eye. “Son, I need to have a word with you.” Zander nodded and rose from the table. He followed his father out the back door where they rested their backs against the house.
For a long moment, neither said anything as Marcus gathered his thoughts. “What about Amalia?” the man asked at last.
Zander sighed and looked up at the stars, the very same stars that he had looked upon the night he’s vowed to protect those he loved or die trying. “I thought I could never love again after she died. I can still see them, tearing at her…” He stopped. “I can’t let that happen to Tiffarah. I love her too much. I was wrong, I love her just as much as I did Amalia, maybe more.”
“Love is more than protecting and providing, Zander.”
“I know that dad. I would do anything for her. I want to give her all that I am.”
Marcus swallowed hard at his son’s words. He remembered saying much the same thing the day he’d told his own father that he wanted to marry Kara. “You know what must be done, then?” he said, turning to Zander.
“Yes, I do.”
“Then I’ll be waiting for you in the morning. You know where I’ll be.” With that, Marcus left him standing there and went back inside.
Zander fell to his knees. The prayer came almost without thinking, “Creator, bless this time. Give me the strength and wisdom I need to persevere. Show me your will.” He continued for an hour before he, too, went inside and retired to a separate room than Tiffarah, to sleep.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Volsung on 06-18-2002 06:42 PM:
From asheri to Gran Adageros and back again
OCC: From the view of Veritas Vesper
Veritas and John walked in to Castle Rosenblade thought one of the secret entrance witch was meant for members of the Royal Guard. Coming here had taken a very log time first running into storms just outside of Nyliam waters, and then being forced to limp back to Gania. All told, the Trip had taken about nine weeks witch almost five times as long as it should have. However, the Secundus Filia has now docked at the Gania port in the Bay of Claim getting repairs, and Veritas was Ready to give all the information that Volsung and herself had collected to give to the King.
Veritas and John continued to walk down the corridor they were in until they came to guards the guards station. Of course, as soon as they moved into the better Light the Guards recognized John, “John! Its been so long since you slipped out on us we were starting to think that your were Dead.”
“I didn’t slip out on you I was ordered to go with Nascent. Now, if you don’t mind I would like to see the King.” The Guard seemed a little taken back by the whole thing, but after thinking for a moment, he started leading then to the Thrown Room.
As they approached, there were people a lot of people walking around looking very worried. After a few moments, John and Veritas were bought before the King. “John Gather and Ms. Vesper I’m glad to see you both alive. I didn’t know if you were going to come back from Nyliam.” He paused, “What information did you bring us, I hope its good because we have gotten quite close to Nyliam.”
“I’m sorry sir but the news isn’t good. its seems that Nyliam is building Airship of its own,” Then Veritas handed over all of Volsung journals as well as her own. “This is all the information that I could collect before we sailed back here.”
“The kings looked down with a bit of a frown on his face. Do you know to what end he plans to use this ship for?” The king asked to Veritas.
“I do not you majesty.” Veritas said solemnly.
The king appeared to be thinking very hard. Veritas could only guess what was on his mind, but it was obvious that he didn’t like these new revelations. After about five minutes of heavy thought then he brought his gaze back to Veritas and John, “I have decided to send you two to The Emperor along with a band of diplomats, your orders are to confront him with this information, see what he knows, once you have done this report back to be immediately.”
“Yes your majesty. When do we leave?” Asked John coming a step closer to the King.
“Within the hour. So if you need anything get now otherwise you will be on you own. The rest of your party will be waiting at the main gate. Thank you bringing this to my attention. You are dismissed.”
Veritas and John packed quickly getting everything from formal robes to food then John spoke up, “Well it looks like were heading back to Asheri.” John said in a very happy voice.
“I just hope this doesn’t cause too many problems.”
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-19-2002 02:47 PM:
From his current state, Draken explored many different memories that he never even knew existed in his mind...
"Listen old man!" A young man with a huge sword said, looking impatient. "You're gonna give me the fial chapter of The Necronomicon, or I'm gonna kill you! You hear me, Pops!?!"
The man rose the huge sword in a meaningful way.
"Do what you have to do," The old man replied "But you are not getting your filthy hands on that chapter,"
This seemed to anger the man even more. He tore the sword down onto the old man.
"Empathy!!!" Draken souted as he ran towards the man, swinging the Gemini Blade. A huge blast filled the area and Draken was thrown aside like a rag doll.
"Hey kid," The young man shouted "If I were you, I wouldn't forget us...We are the Fallen Angels,"
A huge flash filled Draken's head as his eyes fluttered opened.
"Wha.....what happened...." The memories of Damion and Regit came flooding back. "I remember....,"
He noticed that it was dark..."How long have I been out?" He asked himself.
He the tried to stand but winced as he chest pain. He took out a gauze from his pocket and wrapped it round his chest, so as to stop the further flow of blood.
"Looks like those opponents of mine left in their ship across the sea...I think I'll send them a message...,"
Still a little woozy, Draken used the tree for balance as he gaind his equilibrium. He spread out his hands and energy began to rise from the ground and surround his wrists.
He then fired a huge ball of energy into the air and over the sea. A few minutes later, a huge explosion filled the sky and then dimmed...
"There..Now they now I am still alive...But how do I get across this sea....?"
He stood and thought for a long while......Then, it struck him........
Posted by Azure Falcon on 06-19-2002 04:48 PM:
Azure’s eyes cracked open, he tried to stand up but found that both his hands and legs were tied up. A man walked over to him and knelt before him, even before he could see clearly he knew who this man was.
“Glad to see you are awake my Azure,” said Crane in his normal tone of darkness.
“Would be better if I could move.”
“Ah, we just needed to be ready, who knows what you might do,” he smirk then stood up, putting on the posture of a man about to give a speech, he slowly began to pace, “You see Azure, You and I, and my men of course, are about to go on the adventure of a life time. Perhaps you do not agree with the cause, that cause being to retrieve me an item that will grant me with powers greater than you can imagine, but you must say the chance for such adventure intrigues you. While I hate to say it, I need the help of another man with skills like mine, that man being you. Of course if you do not cooperate you will be killed, so it benefits us all if you just come along and fight with us. What do you say?”
“I will help you, what choice do I have? But only if you also agree that Cybele will live.”
Crane smiled, “Oh of course, I would never harm a hair on her pretty little body,” he did not yet know she had already escaped, he thought her dead.
Azure nodded, though was suspicious of Crane’s smiling, “Very well, but I won’t be much help tied up now will I?”
Crane laughed, “How true that is. Men! Untie him, we travel into the cave soon.”
Azure hadn’t really noticed his surroundings until Crane mentioned the word cave, he looked around to see that they were indeed in a cave and outside the entrance was a waterfall, which explains the thundering noise that seemed to be ringing in his ears. The men untied him and pulled him to his feet.
Crane put a hand on Azure shoulder and gave a dark grin, “Welcome aboard, we’re about to have some real fun in this place.”
Azure kept a straight face, “And do I get a weapon by chance?”
“Ah ah, you must earn it first. We need to see if you are trustworthy.”
Trustworthy, that’s real smooth coming from a man who backstabbed his own brothers of the monastery.
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-19-2002 06:11 PM:
OOC: As Zander
IC: Methodically, Zander strapped on the wooden plate armor and padding of traditional Xenchi stick fighting. It had been many years since he had practiced the form of martial art with his father. Now it was time for the real thing.
It had always been a ritual, in his family, for the son to duel with the father when he wished to marry. It was supposed to prove to the father how much he wanted to marry the girl, and if he was able to protect her from harm. Zander had refused to duel his father before he married Amalia, which was a big part of why his father disapproved of the marriage. This time, Zander accepted the challenge; he wanted to do everything the way it should be done.
At last, when he was completely suited up, he took hold of the long, Xenchi stick. It was slightly shorter than the massive sword he used to carry, and much lighter. Made from a bamboo-like tree called the Zebram, native to Asheri, where Xenchi originated, the stick was very strong.
With the Xenchi stick at his side, Zander went out to meet his father. He knew exactly where the man wanted Zander to go. It was a secluded spot to the west of the city where his father used to train him in swordsmanship and Holy magic. When he was a boy, Zander used to play on the large rocks that littered the area, leaping from boulder to boulder. They were flat on top, which made for a perfect playground for a young boy.
Sure enough, Marcus was there waiting for him in full Xenchi armor. The man held his Xenchi stick in the ready position as Zander approached.
“Are you ready?”
Zander stopped ten feet away and nodded, lifting his own Xenchi stick to show that he was. Without further warning, Marcus lashed out and Zander deftly blocked the speedy attack.
“Very well done,” Marcus said, smiling in approval of Zander’s honed reflexes. He only paused for a moment, though, before launching into a volley of swipes, thrusts and stabs that caused Zander to dodge in several directions. Leaping over, diving under and parrying where he could, he found himself on the defensive. He knew that if he wanted to win, he would have to get his father on the defensive instead.
Suddenly he felt himself being lifted up and thrown a short distance. He landed hard on his backside but looked up just in time to block Marcus’ downward slice. He held his father’s gaze for a moment.
“What’s with the magic dad?”
“Would you neglect magic if Tiffarah’s life was at stake?” Marcus asked, chuckling at his son’s surprise. “Come now, nothing lethal.”
Zander didn’t say anything, but forced himself to his feet, pushing his father’s Xenchi stick back easily, while he could plainly see that Marcus was using all his strength to push against him. Nimbly, Zander flipped over his father’s head and spun, bringing his Xenchi stick out before him, hoping to strike Marcus from behind. To his surprise, their Xenchi sticks met and Zander saw that his father had already turned to meet him. This time Marcus laughed even louder.
Zander used a burst of Magical energy to force his father backward and they again launched into a fierce series of swipes, parries and thrusts, this time with Zander on the offensive. There was a spark of determination in Zander’s eyes and adrenaline was kicking in. He knew he’d never fought this well before, but he was even more amazed that his father could still hold out against him.
Marcus had to work hard to keep up with his son’s attacks and was visibly perspiring. The two of them leaped from rock to rock, never letting up on each other except when one would throw the other to one side with their magic. He had to admit, Zander was good, and he was getting tired. It was time to end this.
Zander was in the middle of one of his blazingly fast attacks when he stopped short, stunned. He looked down and saw the end of his father’s Xenchi stick placed firmly to the center of his wooden breastplate. Zander had lost and he hadn’t even seen it coming.
In a daze, he dropped his Xenchi stick to the ground and looked up into his father’s eyes. “I… I failed…” Sadness struck him like a sword to the gut as he realized he wouldn’t be able to marry Tiffarah, because of his inadequacy. Zander fell to his knees, the tears beginning to stream down his eyes. “I’m so sorry… I failed her.”
Marcus dropped his own Xenchi stick and placed his hand on Zander’s shoulder. “No… No son, you didn’t fail her,” Marcus assured his son. “You can marry her. You proved yourself today more than I had ever hoped… You made me proud,” he spoke tenderly. “Go, my son, we have a wedding to plan.” A smile broke on the older man’s face, even through the tears that were streaming down both of their faces.
Zander looked up in shock. He couldn’t say anything; his heart was filled with so much joy. The two men embraced tightly, then walked back to the city together, discussing the wedding that would soon follow.
OOC: Woo!! Anybody up for a wedding reception? Plenty of alcohol!!
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Amethyst on 06-19-2002 07:51 PM:
WHEE!! FREEDOM!!
The first thing that Amethyst felt as she returned to the world of the living was an intense pain in her abdomen. The throbbing pain caused her to start awake, coughing and clutching the wound, sewn up by the deft hands of the healer. Kilandra squeeled and nearly keeled over in artificial happiness as she collasped in Jithral's waiting hands. His face remained hard and featureless as he stared down at the gasping girl who had, just moments before, been pronounced dead.
"Wha-wha-?" Sputtered Amethyst, trying to gather her berrings. The healer struggled to keep her still as she removed the needles and the hollow reed. Once he was finished he walked to Kilandra and Jithral, who were standing by the doorway, waiting for news. Kilandra's face was pale and tiny beads of sweat tainted her once rich complexion.
"...healer?"
"She'll be find, milady. Keep her rested."
Jithral nodded in turn after his wife, numb with shock, horror and disgust. She was putting on quite a show. The guard who almost killed Amethyst tried to right his wrong by assisting another two security officers in lifting the injured girl's body from the floor and bringing her to the couch. Kilandra sputtered and walked mechanically to her friends, who were whispering and muttering amongst themselves like old hens.
Amethyst recalled the sights and sounds she witnessed while drifting into death's waiting arms with silent reverence, staring up at nothing. She was covered in blankets that Kilandra merely threw on her to show her "sympathy" which was a facade that fooled her half-wit friends quite readily. They crooned and made sympathetic noises to Kilandra, who feigned weariness and sadness. Amethyst would have found this humorous, if she were in better circumstances.
Days past with little to fill Amethyst's waking hours. Once Kilandra's friends left her estate, she was back to her snobby attitude and distaste to Amethyst.
When a month was finally over, Amethyst was finally free from near eternal bed rest. Kilandra was beside herself with joy, being allowed once again to boss another child again. Unfortunatly for her, she was not allowed to. Once Amethyst was able to stand on her own feet again and her wound had formed scar tissue, Kilandra's friends were there to see her off. Once again, Kilandra had to put on her best act. She plastered on a fake smile and waved as the violet-haired child left with happiness.
Amethyst felt her soul rise up in glee as she walked off the expansive grounds of Kilandra and Jithral. She had a grin spread across her face for most of her journey out of Fayre. Once night fell, she was back to her sullen self again as her feet blistered and screamed in hate for the conditions they were exposed to. Leaning against a withered Palish tree she fell asleep, her body vulnerable to what nature had in store for her.
Although she survived her night outside of Fayre, Amethyst had miles to travel before reaching Parvini...
OOC: I'm freeee!! Aight, Danny, Orion, and whoever's going to Parvini, I'll be arriving eventually...Probably soon because I'm tired of explaining my travels...I'll just suddenly appear in Parvini 
__________________
Lulled in the countless chambers of the brain, our thoughts are linked by many a hidden chain; awake but one, and in, what myriads rise!
Posted by Eric VanDrison on 06-19-2002 10:17 PM:
Eric and Reana strode into Parvini, battle worn but full of energy and anticipation. They had heard rumors of a force growing in the city that would march against the shadow. What could be more adventurous than that?
“Damn those spawn!” Eric cursed as they made their way through the streets of Parvini. “I’m gonna smell like rotting flesh for a week!”
“Quit complaining,” Reana scolded. “Just be glad you’re alive.”
“Yeah, you’d better be grateful to, or you wouldn’t have anyone to play around with in bed,” he teased.
Reana didn’t say anything, but she knew he was right. She enjoyed their late night tumbles under the sheets as much as he did, but she didn’t want him to get the idea that she had any real feelings for him.
The pair made their way to the opposite edge of the city and were surprised to see that the troops were already moving out. There were a few stragglers, but most of the forces had begun marching in their appointed directions.
“Who should we see about joining up?” Reana asked plainly of a young Farai that was still in the city.
“You’d better hurry,” the young man said, “Go find Sayomara. He’s on his way out of the city on the main road. Look for an old man in a tall blue hat.”
Taking their cue, they bolted toward the main road and saw the old man in the distance with forces of mages and other foot soldiers all around. Eric and Reana quickly made their way to Sayomara, who looked them over carefully as they approached.
“We’d like to help you in your endeavor against the shadow,” Eric said, hopefully.
“We can use any help we can get,” The older man replied.
“Don’t get us wrong, we don’t take kindly to being ordered around. We just want to kick some shadow ass.”
“You’ll fit right in,” Sayomara assured them.
__________________
Life is what you make it
Posted by Regit Seye on 06-19-2002 11:31 PM:
((OOC-Sorry if I misplayed Damion, but I was pretty sure of what he'd do next.
Also, if anyone's near a port, I need some-one/where to integrate this plotline with. It's a tad flat trying to do this between only two people... three counting Kizdean, but he just wants to fight! Anyways, if so, just mention it OOC at the top of your next post... -OOC))
"Get out, boy! We've no use for you! Out before I beat you first!"
"Bu... Dad, no! Mommy, make dad st-"
"DON'T you drag your mother into this! You put her through enough with a hard labor, but all for a blind child? We're farmers boy! We haven't got a reason to keep you here!"
"Mommy..."
"...please listen to your father..."
"No! I can't leave! I can-"
~crack~
Regit awoke with a start, dumping Mooscue onto the floor in a heap, but lay back down in a hurry, moaning from the huge headache crushing his skull. After a squeaky protest, the violated ball of fur clambered onto the foot of the bunk and fell asleep again.
Regit dully felt about him, recognizing the almost-rough feeling of the bunk's cotton blankets. He moaned again, then reached out. He couldn't sense very far, but he could tell that the necromancer wasn't here on the ship. As for the pillar of diluted green energy, it seemed to be just to his right.
"Hello? Is... ugh... someone there?"
__________________
The strength of darkness and power of light
Mean naught to he who's lost his sight.
Though men's hearts quake in dark of night
The blind still seeks what he finds right.
Posted by Eloise Rane on 06-20-2002 07:19 PM:
They had travelled for three days now on horseback, and reached Miltus just before sunset; Miltus, which Eloise had come familiar with over the past couple months, showed the same sights but she regarded them in a new light. She thought of Javier at the Academy, but knew better than to go see him now as she was, although she longed to.
Miltus was still in its state of rebuilding after the late spawn attack, but its market was functional again, and they browsed the weapons stands, Alexandros showing her the finest works of Nylian craftmanship. She came to find out he also came from Balanum, or at least spent a good number of years there. Then she was reminded of a conversation she had had with Bree in her Tavern several months ago; he must have been one of the Holy Knights that arrived on the Seamus, though she kept this subtle realization to herself.
Twilight draped the streets, and the pair made to a nearby Tavern for the evening. It was nearly empty save for a few Nylian soldiers in the far corner who greeted them with inquisitive eyes. Two glasses of Nylian wine were ordered, and the pair took a seat at one of the nearby tables.
She took down the oversized hood of her silver-grey cloak, which had draped excessivley over her face, obscuring it from on-lookers.
"I figure we'll reach Balanum in three of four days, at most," Alexandros was saying as he peered through one of the windows out onto the street.
She nodded slowly as she looked down into her glass. It wasn't exacty an arrival she was looking forward to. Her illusions of the city being invincible had been shattered. Although she was indifferent to him, she thought briefly of her father, an official of the city, forced against his will to do the enemy's bidding, then pushed the thought aside in favor of the situation at hand.
There was talk in the city about the forces in Parvini. They were gaining strength, gathering people from across both Asheri and GA.
Eloise leaned back in her seat and took her glass into her hands. "So tell me, how does one assault the Black Tower unaided?" She smirked.
Alexandros smiled. "I wasn't unaided. I had both Her help and guidance, and the gifts bestowed upon me by my mentor, Velesei, when I was schooled in the heavens."
"And how does one get to be schooled in the heavens?"
"For much the same reason I'm mentoring you. To restore and renew the Order, to what it was long ago." His eyes held a distant gaze, and his voice a soft confidence and determination.
His mind seemed to travel then to a far off time, and she decided on one final question of her mentor that evening. "...What was it long ago?"
He smiled and looked at her now with eyes full of ferver and passion, as if she had asked the question of all questions, and began his story with the rich history of Aeterna, Her, the Great War, the Archangels, onto the devotion, the dedication, the loyalty...the heart... the passion...the skill...the charity......
He spoke well into nightfall, and Eloise sat serenely and listened attentively to his every word, until her eyelids became heavy, much like a child listening to a wonderful bedtime story, then they retreated to their rooms for the night, drained.
Cue: Alexandros
Posted by Volsung on 06-20-2002 07:53 PM:
The Final lesson
Training continued to go well; Ryudo, Tyr, and Feija All were starting to pick up all the major points of Ki magic. [blue]There is only a little more that I can teach them then it will be up to them to learn the rest. But I still have one for lesson for Ryudo and Tyr. [blue/] Volsung thought to himself. It was about that time that Nascent came up to Volsung who had been walking in the back of the pack.
“Greeting Volsung I have news for you.” Nascent Said in an unusually playful voice.
“Did we get a few more people to join up… no let me guess six former Lunis solders, with three Nyliam Solders and 4 dedicated mages that never joined the magi. Well how did I do?” Volsung asked with a big smile on this face.
“Well only two got Lunis solders, seven Nyliam and six dedicated mages on top 15 other that had join up, not counting your three friends. However, that’s not why I came to speak with you. I sent a few Air dedicated ahead of us and then have spotted a major force heading for the Farai-Lunis border I think we can intercept them but if means picking up the pace changing our heading towards Endroth.”
“Volsung paused for a moment, thinking [blue] hmm so must I still have to do. [blue/] He thought to himself [blue] so, little time, always so little time.[blue/] “Ok, hears what I think we should do. First, change our heading and tell everyone to make ready for battle. Mean time Nascent I want you and few other Air Dedicated to fly ahead and tell these people our intention to join up with them. The last thing we need night now is to have a fight with friendly forces. Other than that I think we are about ready for the shadow.”
Nascent nodded his head and flew off. Volsung mused that the greatest generals must have had the best aids otherwise nothing would ever be done. All the same, Volsung was not a general and he had many people to talk too. Night off would be here way to soon and then he would have to teach Tyr and Ryudo how to use their sword. A thin smile showed thought Volsung otherwise busy looking face. For some reason he really liked that sword and the Idea of training others to use it.
-***********************
Night came quickly like it had been for the last week but this time the magi didn’t stop marching, they need to make sure they were in front of that other force other wise they would never have a chance to caught up. It was very large group of solders but it moving with incredible speed. Or al least that what the report said, Volsung wasn’t really sure that so many could move so fast, but there was no time to check it himself, and with Nascent gone He had to lead the Magi all by himself. Witch seemed to be a simple task at the moment, but Volsung knew better than to assume it would stay that way for long.
When the unit finally did stop and Volsung went and tracked down Ryudo and Tyr who like usual were together. “Good I finally found you two, its time for your final lesson.” Volsung said with a bit of a smile of his face. “And I sure you going to like it.”
“Ok” they both said at the same time. “Where are we off to?” Ryudo Asked.
“I haven’t decided yet but to speed things up Tyr gab on to me and Ryudo you fly along side. Its not that I don’t think you can’t hand it but I can fly faster with a extra person than you can.” Then Volsung spoke to Tyr, “Hold on tight this might take a little bit.” She nodded then she lock her arms together around his chest. With that, they took off. It took Volsung almost a half hour to find what he was looking for but then he did he motioned Ryudo to land immediately. “Ok you two, now I bet your wondering why I ragged you both out here.” They both nodded with big grins on their faces. “Don’t do that it was a rhetorical question. Anyways the reason I asked you both out here is because I wanted an area were you could practice using the Blade with out having to worry about hurting anyone.
“So what exactly do you want us to do?” Try asked in her normal sarcastic fashion
“That’s simple each of you gab the sword by the hilt.” Ryudo pulled out the sword and held it out so that he was one side and Tyr on the other. “Good now as Nascent explains it to me, that the sword works by combing both of your magic’s in a way that isn’t normally possible. In addition, while you are both holding he blade you will be able to hear each other’s thoughts and speak in each other’s mind. This way you can decide on your action in a spilt second without a word being said.”
While Volsung had been saying this, he had had his back to Ryudo and Tyr and when he looked around he noticed that they seemed to he smiling quite a bit but weren’t saying anything. Volsung could only guess what was they were thinking but time was short and he still had a few things to say, so Volsung lunched a fire ball right at Ryudo and Tyr witch melted away right before it hit them. “What do you think your doing you Crazy man?” Tyr yelled in an angrily voice.
“I’m sorry but I not done yet. When I’m done, you will have all the time you want to play in each other’s heads but not right now. I need your attention” They both nodded there heads and Volsung continued. “As I was saying decisions can be made in a spilt second, which is essential in the heat of Battle, now remember when your using the sword you can do any thing you can normally do with your magic, but you can also do things witch mix your magic’s. Now why don’t you try something?”
Volsung moved to get clear of anything that might be created while Ryudo and Tyr from the look on their faces appeared to be deciding what do. Then they both looked ready a small tornado of stone and lighting formed a few hundred feet away. [blue] It was only about 10 feet high but it was a good start for these two. [bule/] Volsung thought to himself. “That’s very good, and if we had more time I would could stay here all night and see what else you two could come up with but the Magi will start moving again soon as we really need to get back. Before you take off I just want to say it been a pleasure teaching you both, but you now know all the basics the rest you will have to learn for yourselves.” Ryudo and Tyr both smiled. Then with Agrian Wind between then they flew off towards camp.
Cue:Ryudo, Tyr, or Freija
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Freija Lumis on 06-20-2002 10:15 PM:
OOC: I'll be gone for 10 days, starting tomorrow (Friday) So I'll be leaving a blank spot in the posting.
IC: Freija sat on a bench in a quaint park and sulked. She was learning a lot about her new Ki magic, but her thoughts always drifted back to her dream. It was weird, at first she never thought that she had deep feelings for Ryudo, but now, a couple days after the vision, she was thinking a lot about it. She always allowed her eyes to drift towards him, just to see if he noticed her odd behavior.
Freija placed her head in her hands and sighed, staring down at the travel-warn grass, that was almost bare of green, exposing the packed down dirt. She replayed the images of her dream over and over, as if examining it for any clues to what it would mean.
Volsung was talking with Tyr and Ryudo, a blade in each of their hands. They seemed even more connected, now mind with body. The very sight of this made Freija feel sick. Avoiding eye contact with both of them she stood up and wandered down a path that left the park near the outskirts of Nevyel and wandered into the thrall of life in the open-air market. She wandered around between stalls and found herself in an alley. She leaned against the wall and slid down it into a sitting position. She leaned her head against the wall and stared up at the sky.
What is this? I'm thinking about Ryudo with Tyr a lot, and I don't want to! I don't want to see Ryudo hurt, sure, but I don't want to..... Even her thoughts trailed off. She cursed herself for thinking of him and tried to change the subject. She muttered to herself as a boy, a little younger than her approached her, the metal of a hidden dagger gleaming in the faint light. She looked up at him, but could barely make him out in the shadows. He slid towards her, not expecting her to close her eyes.
Freija followed his form through the shadows with her newly learned ki, his once deep grey outline now a flurry of reds, oranges and yellows. She could see his heart, beating furiously with adrenaline, and his hands hot with apprehension. She guessed by his body language that he was a thief's apprentice, or a rookie in his profession. She leaped up with amazing speed and lept on top of him, her eyes remaining closed. She watched his glowing face widen with fear, and his heart nearly stop with the jolt of realization that he would fail his most important test.
Freija tackled the boy and rolled off of him as he flung her backwards. She stood on her feet and tried to regain her consentration. His glowing form flickered as she began to panic, the emotion flowing over her body like a wave. She regained control and tackled his feet, feeling his balance tilt, and his body fall hard on the ground. He groaned and stood up, standing motionless, staring at her before he fled.
Freija, breathing hard, opened her eyes to come face to face with darkness again. She had passed her own test, she could see in the dark. Suddenly it clicked in. She was praying silently to the Creator to clear her mind of her frustration for long enough, which happened. She was caught in a fight and thought nothing of Ryudo.
Freija smiled to herself and returned the way she came, entering the city once more. She walked down the road and approached Tyr and Ryudo, talking to each other quietly, which Volsung conversed with Nacsent.
OOC: I don't know if I got all the facts right, and I won't be able to edit them because I'm leaving for my trip. So PM me anyway and when I come back I can do some editing.
CUE: Nascent, Ryudo, Tyr, Volsung
__________________
~Today is 1 out of 365. In a year, you won't
remember what you did today so just smile
and get on with life~
~An excuse is worse and more terrible than
a lie; for an excuse is a lie guarded~
-Alexander Pope
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-20-2002 10:19 PM:
OOC: As Zander
IC: Wedding plans was an understatement, as Zander soon found out. Marcus had been saving money since he was born for just this occasion and he was determined to make it perfect for the young couple. He bought the finest decorative armor in Xellos for the armed guards that would accompany Tiffarah in the ceremony.
“This was you I and you mother’s covenant blade,” Marcus said, pulling a long, polished wooden case off of the top shelf in his study. He grabbed a chair from behind his desk and pulled it over next to Zander where he sat and opened the case for his son to see. “I’m having one made for you and Tiffarah, for your wedding, but it will include a Meshai, engraved on the pommel.”
The long, slender sword was a beautiful sight. It was finely adorned with a few precious stones and the blade was engraved with an elegant pattern of two entwined grape vines. The hilt was made from draler and formed in the shape of angel’s wings. Zander knew the importance of such a sword. It was the blade over which his parents had vowed their lives to each other. If one of them should die, the blade would be broken and the tip would be buried with the dead spouse while the one still living would keep the end with the hilt. The sword was so symbolic of love and protection that even the most heartless of thieves would think twice before stealing it.
Zander nodded his approval and Marcus closed the case before replacing it on the shelf. “What will I be wearing?” Zander asked his father. The man had gone to so much effort for his sake, and hadn’t even mentioned it before.
“Oh! By the Creator, I nearly forgot!” the older man exclaimed with a chuckle. “You’ll be wearing the last suit of armor you’ll ever own.”
“How can you say that? What if I find something more effective in protecting myself?” Zander asked.
“Oh, you won’t. At least not anything that will allow you to move like you need to,” Marcus replied. “It’s made from Xellan steel and you’ll need to be fitted for it today.”
“Fitted for it?”
“Well of course! It’s going to form fit to your muscular structure. That’s the only way you’d be able to move in it,” Marcus reasoned. “It’s not going to have much on your arms or from the waist down except for bracers, shoulder guards and leg guards, but your torso will be covered with a full breastplate. It will be small and light enough to allow you to move easily, but it will be able to protect to from anything but those confounded armor piercing bullets that Balanum’s producing.”
“And Tiffarah?” Zander asked hopefully.
“You don’t get to know about that yet, heh”
------------
The next afternoon, Zander stood outside the largest chapel in Xellos and waited as guard after guard poured out of the doors and proceeded down the long isle before fanning out around him. It represented the Creator giving Tiffarah over to him, that he might protect her for the rest of her mortal life. The symbolism was not lost to the many citizens that had gathered to watch the ceremony. Marcus and Kara stood nearby, no doubt remembering their own wedding, so many years before.
Zander couldn’t believe how light his armor was. It had been finished right before the ceremony by the finest blacksmith in Xellos. Farland had been more than happy to make the armor, and even offered Marcus a discount. Now the sturdy metal glinted in the sunlight and Zander’s Katanas, freshly polished, hung on his back.
A priest stood behind him and smiled as he caught sight of Tiffarah who finally emerged through the chapel doors. Only moments later did Zander see her as well and caught his breath. She wore an elegant, white, silk dress that fell off her shoulders and caressed her body as she walked. A halo of white roses, tied together with ribbon, rested on her head and in her hands was the sword. The blade seemed to glow in the sunlight, as did her dress and her face bore a serene smile as she gazed confidently into Zander’s eyes.
To his surprise, she wore her hair up, showing her elven ears to all. There were a few whispers heard from the crowd as they noted her half-elven heritage, but Zander paid them no heed. Marcus had commented on her ears as intriguing, even attractive, and by his words, Zander knew where his interest for elven women had originated.
At last, she stood next to Zander and handed the sword to the priest before them. The slightly balding man in traditional robes took the blade and passed it to Zander who knelt facing Tiffarah, holding the tip of the blade to the ground before him with both hands placed on the handle.
“Revered Sir Zander Kohen, repeat after me,” the priest spoke so all could hear. It felt odd to Zander, hearing his full title, but he nodded his head for the priest to begin. “I, Revered Sir Zander Kohen…”
“I, Revered Sir Zander Kohen…”
“Vow to love, protect and cherish…”
“Vow to love, protect and cherish…”
“Honor, provide and trust…”
“Honor provide and trust…”
“Lady Tiffarah Dulan…”
“Lady Tiffarah Dulan…”
“Through trials and prosperity…”
“Through trials and prosperity…”
“Peace and unrest…”
“Peace and unrest…”
“As long as you both shall live…”
“As long as we both shall live…”
“Rise, Revered Sir Zander Kohen, and look upon your bride,” the priest instructed. “By this sword you have sworn and by it’s blade you are bound.” He tapped the hilt upon each of their brows. “The Creator no longer sees you as separate, but as one, moving and thinking in harmony.” Zander and Tiffarah faced each other; their palms face up between them as the priest laid the sword in their hands. “You may seal the covenant.”
Slowly, the two leaned in toward each other and kissed; slowly, gently, their lips met and a great cheer erupted from the crowd. Balls of holy light swirled around the young couple, with flecks of magical energy trailing behind them and they kissed again.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-21-2002 01:56 PM:
Of Course..Why Didn't I Think Of It Before? No Interruptions...Its Time To Take The Next Step In My Training...
Draken paced along the beach beside the village of Largoth while skimming The Necronomicon on what he hs to do to goto the next step...
"....Okay.....A cauldron..hmm," He skanned the destroyed village and search through some cottages.
"Success....,"
He heaved a huge black cauldron from the cottage and pulled it onto the moonlight shores. He then picked up some branches and stuffed them under the it. He produced a match and struck it off a piece of flint on the beach. In a few minutes the fire kicked into life.
"Next.....6 skulls...Well, judging from the village there must be some skulls there....," With that, he proceeded into the village.
"Huh plenty...," He tossed the skulls into the cauldron. Then, he produced a sheepskin canister from his belt and poured the contents into the cauldron.
Standing back, He began to chant a few lines from The Necronomicon...The cauldron began to bubble as the small amounts of liquid seemed to grow.
Continuing the chanting, Draken could feel energy flying round about him. The cauldron began to overflow as the skulls floated around the brim.
As he finished reading, the cauldron heaved and exploded, unleashing a huge dark blue beam of light cascading into the air. The light could be seen from many miles away as it continued it's ascent towards the heavens. Parting the clouds, the beam flung itself out the atmosphere where it began to fade into the night sky.
Draken Kizdean stood with his head down, The Gemini Blade glowing wildly in his hands.
He then flung his arms into the air and shouted at the top of his lungs "SOUL SHIFT!!!,"
In the blink of an eye he faded and re-appeared standing on a branch a few hundred yards away.
"Perfect," He muttered. "EMPATHY!!!," He yelled a the night sky I WILL AVENGE YOU!!! SOUL SHIFT!!!,"
The Soul Shift transported him far across the sea in a matter of seconds...He felt the presence of the familiar ship out at sea as he materialised at the port on the other side of the sea.
A citizen who witnessed Draken materialised in the port began to approach him with stunned expression on his face.
"Wh...who..What are you?" He stammered nervously.
Draken turned round slowly to face him...He then rose the Gemini Blade above his head...
"N...Nn.No! Wait! I..I....," The Gemini Blade plunged into his stomach, giving him a slow and painful death.
Draken then dragged the newly deceased round behind a building and diguised himself in the clothing...
"Somebody's going to have a nasty surprise later on...,"
And with that, Draken began his journey across this new land...Searching, for his master's killers......
Posted by Lloyd Cordell on 06-21-2002 09:11 PM:
Lloyd's chance on broadway.......
Lloyd and Rhea ran into the tent and quickly grabbed their backpacks and weapons, “Still can’t believe you fell,” laughed Lloyd.
“Shut up, I will smack you, don’t doubt me,” she grinned.
“Ooo the fierce mistress of gravity doth wish to hit me so?” Rhea playfully hit him in the ribs.
“Come on, we need to hurry out of here.” The two left the tent, checking twice to make sure they had everything, then they headed for the city.
**************************************
They walked through the streets, looking around at the sights they knew so well, “I swear I’m never coming back to this place, not once we’re out into the real world,” said Rhea.
Lloyd smiled then jumped up onto a merchants stand.
“The hell are you doing?” Screamed the merchant, but Lloyd ignored him.
Rhea looked at Lloyd in surprise, then he began to sing, “We’re off to see the world!” he jumped off the stand, “The wide and beautiful world!” he pulled out his dirks and did a mock fight, “Where adventure we will find, fighting beasts to save the kind!” Rhea put her face in her hands and let out a sigh of grief, “The world is waiting for us!” Lloyd grabbed onto a lamp post and went around it once, “I say the world is waiting for us!” he pointed to Rhea and winked, multiple people were looking at them oddly, “We’ll drink to merry all night,” he sat down on a barrel, “And the next day will be more adventure alright…….Cause I say…..ouf,” Rhea pushed Lloyd off the barrel.
“You are so childish,” though she couldn’t hide her smile.
Lloyd got up, “Well sorry! I thought it was a nice song. Perhaps I should join the theatre, they would respect my talent!”
“What talent?” smirked Rhea.
“Harsh words coming from someone who fell off a wire.”
“Why you……..”
“Hey!” they both turned to see Grant, one of the men from the circus.
“Oh hell, it’s your parents’ little pet,” mumbled Lloyd. He and Grant had never got along due to Grant liking Rhea, therefore hating that Lloyd stayed with her.
“Be nice, maybe we can just talk him into leaving us alone.”
“Goodluck with that one, that man is like a mutt, he won’t stop following you.”
“Where are you two going?!” He smiled at Rhea and glared at Lloyd, “The hell are you talking her into now, Lloyd?” he said the name with disgust.
__________________
Life is like a throwing knife.....once you toss it, there is no turning back.
Posted by Draken Kizdean on 06-22-2002 03:55 PM:
((OOC - At this point, Draken will begin to feel the effects of the soul shift starting to kick in. If anyone's walking along a country road or something. Integrate the plot with your prescence...thenk ya - OOC))
Draken's momentum began to slow at a rapid pace as he walked along the narrow dirt track.
"What the hell is going on?" He said as he staggered along.
He grasped a nearby tree and began to take huge breathes as the wind was grasped from him. Everything around him began to swirl and go dark as he slumped down into the middle of the track.
Slowly, he began to fall unconcious. His last glimpse was of the sunrise as the darkness shrouded his head...
Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 06-23-2002 06:33 PM:
Back in Evisis
OOC: Morrowind keeps crashing on me, so I'm back. God, that's a great game.
IC: Farin Tarkin wiped the blood off his dagger. The young boy had stopped breathing, and his mother was lying unconscious nearby. He raised the blood-stained cloth to his mouth and licked it. Blood was an acquired taste. He envied vampires, who could feast on the red water of life all day.
A cat watched attentively a few feet away. Farin looked over at it. "Why?" He laughed. "What kind of silly question is that? If I hadn't, the nasty little bastard would have ratted me out."
He looked at the cat. It looked back at him. "What? No, no. I don't like doing kids. It's too messy; their blood is too fresh, and they can be hard to get your hands on. Doin' them for ransom is bad, too. Then there's a concrete reason for society to want your head on a plate. The bounty would be unbelievable. Every bounty hunter in Gania would be after me if I had kidnapped this little bastard." He sniffed. "No, I don't do kids, not usually. Only if I have to." He looked over at the boy's mother.
The cat looked at Farin. Farin looked over at the cat. "Her?" He grinned devilishly. "No, not yet. Not until I've tasted the dirty slut." The young woman was still unconscious. The boy's father had left after impregnating her three years ago. Now she would meet a tragic end. Farin slit her throat after raping her.
**********************************************
Later, Farin was kneeling by a trough in the street, washing his hands. A man nearby dressed in rich clothes saw Farin's tattoo and approached. Farin looked up suspiciously.
"Excuse me, sir," the man said, "but are you the man they call the Dark Assass..."
The man never got to finish his sentence. Farin lunged at the man, covering his mouth with his hand, and quickly pulled him into the nearest alley. He had a murderous, paranoid look in his eye. "Who sent you?!"
"No one! No one! I came to offer you a bounty!"
Farin still held the man against the wall, not moving a muscle. After a minute or two, he released the man.
"My name is Antony Posaides. About two years ago, a young lady named Octavia was abducted in the Evisis Woods."
"The Arboreal Prowler!" A wide grin appeared on Tarkin's face. "You want me to kill him!"
The man stuttered. "W-w-well yes, he's wanted dead or alive."
"Dead." Farin began to chuckle. "The Arboreal Prowler. Finally, I have a reason."
**********************************************
The fire cracked and snapped like the bark of a falling tree. By its light, the trees cast enormous shadows in the dense forest. A tall, cloaked man walked around it and sat down on a rock nearby. He took a lifeless, red rose out of one of his pockets. A young lady lying on some blankets nearby moaned.
The Arboreal Prowler looked over at her, then across the fire at the wolf that stood there. The fire danced in the creature's eyes as if his soul was playing some lonely tune. The two of them were without a wife. Each found company in the other's loneliness. The Prowler looked at the rose regretfully.
Halar looked at him, concerned for his friend. He knew what was wrong, but he wanted to be sure. "Prowler," he said in his native tongue, the language of the Fiero, "you have not said a word since we found that rose two weeks ago washed up on the shore of the eastern coast."
The Prowler looked at his friend sadly and lifted the rose above the fire so Halar could see it. A pedal fell off the pathetic flower. Halar slowly nodded. "It is dead." He looked over at Ilona. "And so is she, in spirit."
The Prowler sighed heavily, trying desperately to hold in his tears. Each tear weighed a thousand pounds, and he struggled not to let them go. He stood up and hastily walked away. Halar let him go. After watching his friend disappear into the woods, the wolf slowly walked over to Ilona and lied down next to her, nudging her face with his. She smiled weakly in her dreamless sleep and put her arm around Halar. It was all he could do to try and save his friend's wife.
The silence was soon broken by a piercing howl on the wind. Halar quickly lifted his head up and looked in the direction of the mournful noise. He could soon tell it was the Arboreal Prowler. He had never heard a human howling like a wolf, and it was a sad, lonely sound. The howl was not meaningless; it was a Fiero poem about love, death, and tragedy. The very sound of the beautiful lament brought tears to Halar's eyes.
The Prowler's song lasted through most of the night, and he returned right before dawn. He brought news with him. "A small band of Ganian soldiers came through the Evisis Woods recently." He looked toward the west. "They entered the old temple."
The two of them packed their things and prepared to leave. "You went in their once."
"The evil in that place is not dead. We didn't kill it. It has only grown stronger. Those fools will never make it out of there alive."
__________________
I am the reason you are afraid of the dark. I am the reason you fear venturing alone into the woods. It is my name that is whispered by the trees and carried by the wind to your ears. I am the Arboreal Prowler.
Posted by Maximus on 06-24-2002 12:06 PM:
Maximus' Journey
Maximus awoke with a start, as a large animal began to walk through his campsight. He had just left a local town after acquiring some new supplies. Maximus jumped behind a large shrub to hide, he'd learned before that it's best to leave the animals alone; unless you want to kill it, which he had no desire to do. After several tense minutes Maximus revealed himself, but the animal had already left. He then packed up his possesions and continued on his journey.
He walked many miles without seeing anyone or anything other than plants. It was often like this and Maximus was used to it. A stranger covered by a hooded cloak appeared. "Who are you?" he asked the stranger. The stanger remained silent. "Well, are you going to answer?" Still the stranger remained silent. Feeling aprehensive Maximus drew his sword and began to walk away.
WHACK
Maximus felt a hard object hit the back of his head. He hit the ground face first, and when he rolled over the stranger had lowered his hood and drew his sword as well. Maximus could feel the razor sharp point of the sword on his throat. "Throw down your weapon!" Maximus did as he was told. "What do you want?" Maximus asked. The stranger replied, "I want all of your money now!" Maximus handed his pouch of gold over to the thief, the thief pocketed the gold and walked away. Maximus picked up his sword and tracked him for a long time, and when the thief stopped Maximus drew his bow took aim and fired at the thief's leg. He fell with a thud and the contents of his pockets were scattered on the forrest floor. Maximus ran up quickly and grabbed all of the thiefs ill-gotten booty, and left the thief there to suffer.
Posted by Keiru Opal on 06-24-2002 03:43 PM:
“Thank you, friend,” Zander said to the priest as the crowd slowly began to dissipate. Several men came forward to give Zander a pat on the shoulder, but he ignored most of them.
“Please, call me Cedric,” he said. “It really wasn’t any trouble at all. Ewen and I were in the area searching for a friend of ours, but, apparently, he’s nowhere to be found. I fear he might have perished.”
“Your name is Cedric, you say?” Zander asked. He remembered that name. Hadn’t Sekirah informed him that he was searching for his comrades, Cedric and Ewen?
“Yes, why?”
“Would this friend of yours happen to bear the name, ‘Sekirah’?” Zander asked.
“Why, yes! That’s him! Do you know him?” The excitement was plain on Cedric’s face.
“Not well, but we’ve met and he is searching for you as well,” Zander replied. “If we hurry, we can intercept him, but we must leave tonight.”
“We? But you’ve just been married! Don’t you want time alone with your wife?”
“Cedric, do you think I could really get time alone with her in this city, especially being who I am?” Zander asked rhetorically. “I was planning on heading that way very soon anyway; there is unrest in the Shadow and it troubles me.”
“Leaving so soon then?” Marcus asked, overhearing the last bit of the conversation as he approached with Tiffarah and Kara at his side.
“Yes, father. I may be a husband, but I am also a Holy Knight; it is my duty,” Zander said. “Tiffarah, I won’t blame you if you want to stay behind.”
“No, I’ll come,” she said, taking his hand. “I’m not as helpless as you might think.”
Marcus chuckled and Zander cracked a smile. “I know that much,” Zander said and turned back to Cedric. “Tiffarah and I will be accompanying you through the way gate; we leave as soon as we are all ready.”
“Wait a minute,” Marcus said. “You’re on your way to take it to the shadow. You think I’ll pass up that kind of a chance? I’m coming, too.”
“Then let’s make a party of it,” Cedric smiled. “It shouldn’t take long for Ewen and I to gather our belongings. We’ll meet you at the main gate to the city.”
“I feel wrong wearing this armor when Tiffarah has none,” Zander said to his father, making sure they had everything they needed, including a fresh supply of grans for each of them, while they waited in the dining room for Tiffarah to join them. They had all their gear laid out on the table.
“You think we didn’t anticipate you going off to be a hero?” Marcus asked. “Of course we got her some armor. It’s more mobile though; less steel and more leather. She wouldn’t have it any other way.”
As if on cue, Tiffarah walked into the room carrying a small pack, full of her gear and money of her own. Her armor was, indeed, mostly hardened leather; only her breasts were protected by the strong, Xellan steel. The skirt, made from hardened leather strips, sewn together, was more for show than for protection, but Zander decided it provided her with much more safety than her last choice of garments; the rest would be provided by him.
After saying their goodbyes to Kara, the three of them saddled up three of Marcus’ horses and met Cedric and Ewen at the gate. Each of them had their own horses and without further pause, all five of them were galloping along the road to Gania.
Traveling at such speed all night, they reached the way gate before morning. When they found that no one had seen a man matching Sekirah’s description in the last few days, they paid their way through to Asheri, hoping to meet him there.
__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.
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